Active chemistry and physiological mode of action
Monocrotophos belongs to the organophosphorus chemical family (IRAC Group 1B).
Key technical characteristics:
- Active ingredient: Monocrotophos 36% Soluble Liquid (SL).
- Cholinesterase inhibition: Irreversibly binds to acetylcholinesterase enzymes at insect nerve synapses, leading to acetylcholine accumulation, nervous exhaustion, and mortality.
- Systemic and contact action: Rapidly absorbed through plant foliage with translaminar and vascular movement, protecting new emerging shoots.
- Acaricidal suppression: Delivers simultaneous knockdown of phytophagous mites alongside target insect populations.
Approved crops versus strictly banned applications
Indian regulatory directives under CIBRC clearly delineate legal usage parameters for Monocrotophos:
Permitted and prohibited uses:
- Approved non-food and field crops: Permitted strictly on cotton (for bollworms and sucking pests), sugarcane, and specific oilseeds within label restrictions.
- Strict vegetable and fruit ban: Completely prohibited on all vegetable crops (tomato, brinjal, okra, cabbage, cauliflower, cucurbits) and fruit orchards due to dangerous toxic residues in food.
- Restricted pulse use: Permitted on pigeon pea (red gram) only for early pod borer control, strictly observing the mandatory pre-harvest interval.
- Label compliance: Always inspect the official green, blue, yellow, or red diamond toxicity triangle on the container.
Handling safeguards and toxicity management
Monocrotophos falls into the highly hazardous toxicity class. Applicators must wear specialized personal protective gear, avoid spraying during windy periods, and never eat or smoke while handling the product. In the event of accidental exposure, immediately wash skin with plenty of soap and water, and seek emergency medical attention with the product label; Atropine and Pralidoxime (PAM) serve as medical antidotes.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What chemical class does Monocrotophos belong to?
Monocrotophos belongs to the organophosphate class (IRAC Group 1B) of insecticides and acaricides.
Is Monocrotophos legally permitted on vegetable crops in India?
No, CIBRC regulations strictly prohibit the use of Monocrotophos on all vegetable and fruit crops due to hazardous dietary residues.
What is the medical antidote for accidental Monocrotophos poisoning?
Atropine sulphate along with Pralidoxime (PAM) serves as the standard antidote administered under qualified medical supervision.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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