Active ingredient and chemical mode of action
Quinalphos disrupts the central nervous system of susceptible insect pests.
Mode of action details:
- Active ingredient: Quinalphos 25% EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate).
- Enzyme inhibition: Binds to and irreversibly inhibits the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme, causing acetylcholine buildup at nerve synapses.
- Neurotoxicity: Results in continuous nerve firing, muscle twitches, rapid paralysis, and insect mortality.
- Translaminar movement: Penetrates treated leaf surfaces, killing hidden leaf miners and caterpillars boring beneath the epidermis.
Target insect pests and registered crops
Quinalphos is registered under CIBRC for diverse agronomic applications.
Major registered uses:
- Cotton: Controls American bollworm, spotted bollworm, and leaf roller caterpillars.
- Soybean and pulses: Controls pod borers, semiloopers, and leaf miners.
- Paddy (Rice): Controls yellow stem borer, leaf folder, and hispa.
- Groundnut: Effective against leaf webber and tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura).
- Adhere strictly to label directions regarding dosage rates and dilution volumes; never exceed registered application concentrations.
Protective equipment, safety and pre-harvest intervals
As an organophosphate compound, Quinalphos requires disciplined handling. Applicators must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including protective goggles, chemical-resistant nitrile gloves, and face masks. Antidotes (atropine and 2-PAM) should be administered under medical supervision in case of accidental exposure. Observe statutory pre-harvest intervals (PHI).
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active ingredient in Ekalux insecticide?
The active ingredient is Quinalphos 25% EC, an organophosphate insecticide.
What is the primary mode of action of Quinalphos?
It inhibits the acetylcholinesterase enzyme in insect nerve synapses, leading to neurotoxic paralysis and rapid pest mortality.
Which major pests does Quinalphos control in soybean and cotton?
It controls pod borers, bollworms, semilooper caterpillars, and leaf webbers.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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