Chemical Class and Penetrative Translaminar Action
Ekalux features the active molecule Quinalphos 25% EC, an organophosphorus insecticide that functions as an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor. By preventing acetylcholine breakdown in nerve synapses, it leads to rapid neural overstimulation and pest paralysis.
Quinalphos exhibits excellent cuticular penetration and translaminar mobility, crossing the leaf blade to control hidden pests feeding on the underside of foliage and young boring larvae before they enter deep vascular stems.
- Active ingredient: Quinalphos 25 percent w/w EC
- Insecticide group: IRAC Group 1B (Organophosphates - Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors)
- Mode of entry: Contact, stomach poison, and translaminar foliage penetration
- Target life stages: Actively feeding larvae, caterpillars, and foliage chewers
CIBRC Approved Target Pests and Crops
The Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) approves Quinalphos 25% EC across agronomic field crops and commercial vegetables where rapid pest suppression is required.
Proper application timing focuses on early larval emergence to prevent deep boreholes in stems, pods, and fruit structures where chemical sprays cannot reach.
- Paddy: Yellow stem borer (*Scirpophaga incertulas*), leaf folder (*Cnaphalocrocis medinalis*), and hispa
- Cotton: American bollworm, spotted bollworm, and leaf roller
- Pulses (Pigeonpea, Chickpea): Pod borer (*Helicoverpa armigera*) and pod fly
- Vegetables (Chilli, Tomato): Fruit borers and defoliating caterpillars
Safe Application Protocols and Environmental Precautions
Due to its organophosphate chemistry, applicators must handle Ekalux with disciplined safety measures, using full protective gear to avoid skin contact and inhalation of spray mist.
Quinalphos is toxic to aquatic organisms and beneficial pollinators. Avoid direct spraying during peak daytime bee pollination and maintain untreated buffer zones near open water reservoirs.
- Personal protection: Wear impermeable rubber gloves, face shield, and chemical apron
- Honeybee safety: Do not spray during active daylight pollination hours
- Waterway buffers: Avoid drifting into fish ponds, canals, and livestock water troughs
- Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI): Observe statutory waiting periods specified on the product label
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the primary mode of action of Quinalphos?
Quinalphos inhibits the acetylcholinesterase enzyme, causing continuous acetylcholine accumulation, neuromuscular fatigue, and rapid death of target insect pests.
Does Ekalux have ovicidal activity against insect eggs?
Quinalphos possesses moderate ovicidal and larvicidal action, preventing newly hatched larvae from successfully penetrating crop stems and leaves.
Can Ekalux be mixed with alkaline fertilizers like lime-sulphur?
No, organophosphates like Quinalphos undergo rapid chemical hydrolysis in alkaline spray solutions, severely reducing insecticidal potency.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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