Classification by Chemical Family and FRAC Groups
The Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC) classifies active substances based on their biochemical target sites within fungal cells.
Familiarity with chemical families enables farmers to alternate modes of action effectively rather than mistakenly swapping identical molecules with different brand names.
- Triazoles (FRAC Group 3 - DMIs): Hexaconazole, difenoconazole, tebuconazole, and propiconazole inhibiting ergosterol synthesis
- Strobilurins (FRAC Group 11 - QoIs): Azoxystrobin, kresoxim-methyl, and pyraclostrobin blocking mitochondrial ATP respiration
- Carboxamides / SDHIs (FRAC Group 7): Fluxapyroxad and boscalid inhibiting succinate dehydrogenase
- Dithiocarbamates (FRAC Group M03): Mancozeb and zineb multi-site contact protectants with low resistance risk
- Inorganic Protectants (FRAC Group M01/M02): Copper oxychloride, Bordeaux mixture, and elemental sulfur
Technical Generic Names vs Commercial Brand Names
A single active ingredient is often manufactured and sold under dozens of proprietary brand names by different agrochemical companies.
Always check the small print on pesticide packaging that identifies the technical active ingredient and concentration percentage.
- Mancozeb 75% WP: Marketed under popular commercial names like Dithane M-45 and Indofil M-45
- Carbendazim 50% WP: Sold widely under brand names including Bavistin and Dhanustin
- Azoxystrobin 23% SC: Marketed under trade names such as Amistar and Mirador
- Metalaxyl + Mancozeb: Sold under brand names like Ridomil Gold and Krilaxyl
Stewardship and Resistance Management Rules
Pathogenic fungi can rapidly develop resistance to single-site systemic fungicides when applied repeatedly across cropping seasons.
Adhere to rotational guidelines by alternating between different FRAC group numbers or utilizing multi-site protectant mixtures.
- Rotate Modes of Action: Never apply single-site systemic fungicides consecutively for more than two applications
- Incorporate Multi-Site Protectants: Tank-mix or alternate with multi-site contact protectants like mancozeb or copper
- Calibrated Dosage: Always use the manufacturer-recommended label dose; sub-lethal under-dosing accelerates resistance selection
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the difference between a brand name and a technical name in fungicides?
The brand name is the manufacturer's trademarked label, while the technical name is the actual chemical active ingredient that controls the pathogen.
What does a FRAC code signify on a fungicide bottle?
A FRAC code indicates the biochemical mode of action; rotating between different FRAC numbers prevents fungal resistance.
Which fungicides have multi-site activity with low resistance risk?
Contact fungicides like mancozeb, copper oxychloride, and elemental sulfur attack multiple cellular sites, making resistance virtually nonexistent.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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