Chemical properties and acropetal systemic mode of action
Imidacloprid is readily absorbed by foliage, roots, and seeds, moving rapidly through plant xylem to protect emerging shoots.
- Binds irreversibly to post-synaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR, IRAC Group 4A) in insect central nervous systems.
- Causes sustained neurological stimulation, uncoordinated twitching, paralysis, and death by starvation.
- Systemic translocation: Protects both upper and lower leaf surfaces, including new growth that emerges after application.
- Soluble liquid (17.8% SL) formulation: Dissolves completely in water without leaving gritty nozzle-clogging residues.
Registered crops and target sucking pest spectrum
Confidor is approved by CIBRC across major agricultural, commercial, and horticultural crops in India.
- Cotton: Broad-spectrum control of aphids, jassids (leafhoppers), and thrips during vegetative development.
- Rice (Paddy): Effective management of brown planthopper (BPH) and whitebacked planthopper (WBPH).
- Chilli and Vegetables: Control of thrips, whiteflies, and aphids that transmit destructive plant viruses.
- Sugarcane: Management of sugarcane termites and pyrilla leafhoppers.
Application safety, spray timing, and bee protection
Apply Confidor at the early onset of sucking pest populations before economic injury thresholds are crossed. Because neonicotinoids present high acute toxicity to foraging honeybees, do not apply Confidor during peak crop flowering periods. Operators must wear protective rubber gloves, face masks, and eye protection during spray preparation.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the technical active chemical in Confidor?
Confidor contains Imidacloprid 17.8% SL, a broad-spectrum systemic neonicotinoid insecticide.
Which insect pests are primarily controlled by Confidor?
It primarily controls sap-sucking insects including aphids, jassids, thrips, whiteflies, and planthoppers.
Why should Confidor not be sprayed during crop flowering?
Imidacloprid is highly toxic to pollinating honeybees; spraying during active flowering can harm bee colonies.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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