Active Ingredient Profile and Chitin Inhibition Action
Lufenuron belongs to the benzoylurea chemical class (IRAC Group 15), formulated as an emulsifiable concentrate (5.4% EC).
It works by blocking the polymerization of chitin, the structural polysaccharide forming the insect cuticle.
Treated larvae are unable to synthesize a new cuticle during ecdysis, becoming trapped and dying inside their old unshed skin during molting.
- Formulation: 5.4 percent Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC)
- Ovicidal & trans-ovarian effect: Directly kills developing embryos in eggs and sterilizes adult females upon contact
- Beneficial safety: Spares honeybees, predatory ladybird beetles, and parasitic wasps in IPM programs
Target Pests and Approved Crop Applications
Lufenuron is registered across cotton, cabbage, tomato, chili, and commercial vegetable crops.
It is especially valued for controlling defoliating Spodoptera caterpillars and diamondback moths that have developed resistance to neurotoxic pyrethroids.
- Cabbage & cauliflower: Highly effective against diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella)
- Cotton & soybean: Controls tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) and semiloopers
- Vegetables & pulses: Suppresses fruit borers and pod borers at early larval stages
Application Guidelines, Timing, and Safety
Because Lufenuron acts on insect molting, it is most effective when applied at early egg hatching or during early larval instars.
Dilute the emulsifiable concentrate in clean water with continuous agitation and apply using fine mist sprayers.
Observe recommended label pre-harvest intervals before picking commercial crops.
- Early intervention: Spray when monitoring reveals egg masses or pinhole foliar damage for maximum efficacy
- Canopy wetting: Spray both upper and lower canopy surfaces until leaves are evenly coated
- Personal protection: Wear protective rubber gloves, mask, and safety goggles during handling
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 primary mode of action of Lufenuron?
Lufenuron is a chitin synthesis inhibitor that prevents caterpillar larvae from successfully molting into subsequent growth stages.
Does Lufenuron kill adult moths immediately?
No, it targets larval molting and sterilizes female eggs; adult moths die naturally without producing viable offspring.
Is Lufenuron safe for beneficial predatory insects?
Yes, its specialized chitin-inhibiting mechanism exhibits excellent safety for adult honeybees and predatory beneficial insects.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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