Active Ingredient and Mode of Action
Bifenthrin operates on voltage-gated sodium channels along insect nerve axons (IRAC Group 3A), preventing channel closure and inducing repetitive nerve firings.
Unlike many conventional pyrethroids, bifenthrin possesses strong acaricidal activity, making it effective against mites in addition to destructive insects.
- Pyrethroid Class: Type I synthetic pyrethroid with low vapor pressure and high soil adsorption
- Acaricidal Properties: Simultaneously suppresses two-spotted spider mites and yellow mites
- Knockdown Speed: Rapid paralysis of pests upon contact or consumption of treated plant tissue
Key Crop Applications
In cotton cultivation, Markar provides defense against bollworm complexes, whiteflies, and jassids. In rice, it tackles stem borers and leaf folders efficiently.
It is also formulated for soil application against termites in sugarcane setts and structural wood barriers.
- Cotton: Bollworms, spotted bollworms, whiteflies, and aphids
- Paddy: Stem borer, leaf folder, and green leafhopper suppression
- Sugarcane: Termite protection applied directly in furrow over planting setts
Application Precautions and Operator Safety
Because synthetic pyrethroids can be toxic to aquatic organisms and honeybees, avoid spraying near water bodies or during active honeybee foraging hours.
Maintain proper nozzle distance and use protective clothing during preparation and spraying.
- Eco-safety: Avoid direct spray or runoff into fish ponds, canals, and streams
- Adjuvants: Do not mix with highly alkaline materials or lime sulfur
- Storage: Store securely in original sealed container away from food, animal feed, and children
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 technical ingredient in Markar?
Markar contains bifenthrin 10% EC, a synthetic pyrethroid with dual insecticidal and acaricidal activity.
Can Markar control termites in sugarcane?
Yes, bifenthrin formulations are labeled for soil furrow application to protect sugarcane setts from subterranean termites.
Is Markar effective against mites?
Yes, bifenthrin has unique miticidal properties that distinguish it from standard pyrethroids, helping to suppress mite populations.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More Crop Protection & Pesticides guides
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