Chemical classification and acetylcholinesterase inhibition
Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate insecticide and acaricide that delivers rapid insect mortality through multiple pathways including contact, ingestion, and vapor action.
It functions by irreversibly inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme critical for terminating nerve impulses at neural junctions. This leads to continuous acetylcholine buildup, triggering violent tremors, muscle spasms, paralysis, and pest death.
- Active chemical: Chlorpyrifos (formulated as 20% EC and 50% EC).
- Chemical class: Organophosphate (Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor).
- Vapor action: Possesses significant vapor pressure enabling fumigant action in soil pores and thick plant canopies.
Agricultural pest uses and structural termite control
Chlorpyrifos is registered for controlling tough agricultural pests across field crops, commercial orchards, and construction soil barriers.
Its high soil affinity and persistence make it a standard choice for suppressing subterranean termites, root grubs, and cutworms.
- Paddy (Rice): Stem borer, leaf folder, and gall midge control.
- Cotton: Bollworms, aphids, and whiteflies.
- Soil treatment: Controlling white grubs, cutworms, and subterranean termites in sugarcane setts and groundnut.
- Structural pest control: Diluted soil drenching in building foundations for pre- and post-construction termite proofing.
Statutory regulatory directives and chemical handling safety
Because organophosphates present occupational toxicity and environmental persistence hazards, applicators must follow strict statutory guidelines issued by the Central Insecticides Board.
Personal protective equipment must be worn during preparation and spraying, and operators must observe prescribed pre-harvest intervals.
- Protective gear: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, apron, goggles, face shield, and protective boots.
- Environmental protection: Highly toxic to fish, birds, and honeybees; avoid spraying near water channels or during active pollination.
- Pre-harvest interval (PHI): Strictly follow mandatory waiting periods on approved labels before harvesting edible food crops.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What active ingredient does Chloro insecticide contain?
It contains Chlorpyrifos, a broad-spectrum organophosphate insecticide available in 20% EC and 50% EC formulations.
Is Chlorpyrifos used for soil termite control?
Yes, Chlorpyrifos is widely registered for soil drenching to protect building foundations, timber, and sugarcane setts from termites.
What personal safety precautions are required when applying Chlorpyrifos?
Applicators must wear full protective clothing, rubber gloves, and a face shield, avoiding skin contact, spray drift, and vapor inhalation.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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