Chemical profile and neurotoxic mode of action
Clothianidin targets the insect central nervous system with high receptor affinity.
- Chemical Class: Neonicotinoid (IRAC Group 4A).
- Action Mechanism: Acts as an agonist on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR), causing continuous nerve stimulation, paralysis, and death.
- Systemic Translocation: Rapidly absorbed through roots and foliage, moving acropetally to protect new vegetative flushes.
- WDG Formulation: Water-dispersible granules dissolve cleanly in water without generating airborne dust during measuring.
Target crops and approved pest spectrum
Registered under CIBRC label directions for managing stubborn piercing and sucking pests.
- Cotton: Jassids (leafhoppers), aphids, and whiteflies.
- Rice (Paddy): Brown plant hopper (BPH) and white-backed plant hopper (WBPH).
- Sugarcane: Termites and white grubs when applied as a soil drench or set treatment.
- Tea: Tea mosquito bug and thrips.
- Vegetables: Aphids, thrips, and leafhoppers in chilli and okra.
Spraying best practices and pollinator safety
Responsible application timing preserves insecticidal efficacy while protecting beneficial insects.
- Apply at economic threshold levels when nymph populations begin multiplying on leaf undersides.
- Ensure uniform foliar coverage using calibrated hollow-cone nozzles and clean water.
- Honeybee Protection: Highly toxic to bees; avoid foliar spraying during active foraging hours and bloom periods.
- Strictly observe the approved pre-harvest interval (PHI) printed on the product packaging.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What type of formulation is Clothianidin 50 WDG?
It is a Water Dispersible Granule (WDG) formulation that dissolves completely in water to form a uniform spray suspension.
Does Clothianidin control brown plant hopper in rice?
Yes, Clothianidin 50% WDG is approved and widely recommended for systemic control of brown plant hoppers in paddy.
Is Clothianidin safe to spray during crop flowering?
No, like all neonicotinoids, Clothianidin is toxic to honeybees and wild pollinators; avoid spraying during active flower bloom.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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