Active Ingredient and Mode of Action
Tolfenpyrad belongs to the pyrazole carboxamide chemical class (IRAC Group 21A), functioning as a Mitochondrial Complex I Electron Transport Inhibitor (METI).
By blocking cellular respiration at the NADH dehydrogenase enzyme site, it shuts down ATP energy synthesis, inducing rapid paralysis and mortality.
- Chemical Class: Pyrazole derivative possessing contact and stomach insecticidal-acaricidal activity
- Complex I METI Inhibitor: Shuts down mitochondrial energy production in insect and mite cells
- Multi-Pest Knockdown: Controls sucking pests, lepidopteran caterpillars, and phytophagous mites simultaneously
- Ovicidal Action: Inhibits respiratory metabolism in insect and mite eggs, preventing egg hatching
Target Pests and Crop Defense
Keefun is widely recognized for resolving complex pest outbreaks where multiple pest species attack crops simultaneously.
In chilli, it is a primary treatment against severe leaf curl caused by yellow mites and thrips.
- Chilli: Chilli thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis) and yellow mites (Polyphagotarsonemus latus)
- Cotton: Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci), jassids, and aphids
- Cabbage and Cauliflower: Diamondback moth (DBM - Plutella xylostella) and aphids
- Mango and Grapes: Hopper complexes and thrips damaging blossoms and tender shoots
Application Technique and Operator Safety
Ensure thorough spray coverage of the lower leaf surfaces where thrips, whiteflies, and mites congregate.
To prevent resistance buildup, avoid consecutive applications beyond recommended label limits and alternate with other modes of action.
- Spray Volume: Apply with 200 liters of water per acre using hollow cone nozzles at adequate operating pressure
- Protective Gear: Operators must wear chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and respiratory masks during preparation
- Pre-Harvest Interval: Check official CIBRC label directions for mandatory crop withholding intervals
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the technical composition of Keefun?
Keefun contains tolfenpyrad 15% EC, an advanced pyrazole mitochondrial electron transport inhibitor.
Does Keefun control both thrips and mites?
Yes, tolfenpyrad has dual insecticidal and acaricidal properties, effectively controlling both thrips and yellow mites in chilli.
What is the mode of action of tolfenpyrad?
It inhibits mitochondrial electron transport at Complex I (METI), preventing cellular ATP energy production in targeted pests.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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