Chemical Class and Mode of Action
Phenthoate belongs to the organothiophosphate chemical class (IRAC Group 1B), functioning as an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor.
It binds to the acetylcholinesterase enzyme at nerve synapses, causing continuous accumulation of acetylcholine, repetitive nerve firing, rapid paralysis, and pest death.
- Chemical Family: Organophosphate derivative with contact, stomach, and mild acaricidal properties
- AChE Inhibition: Blocks nerve neurotransmitter breakdown, inducing rapid knockdown of mobile insect stages
- Penetrating Action: Emulsifiable concentrate (50% EC) formulation ensures rapid penetration through insect cuticles
Target Crops and Insect Pests
Phenthoate 50% EC is registered across major staples and commercial cash crops facing multi-pest infestations.
In rice, it controls destructive lepidopteran stem borers and sucking plant bugs, while in cotton it curbs bollworms.
- Paddy (Rice): Yellow stem borer, leaf folder, green leafhopper, and gall midge
- Cotton: Spotted bollworm, pink bollworm, and foliar jassid complexes
- Tea: Tea mosquito bug (Helopeltis theivora) and looper caterpillars
- Vegetables (Brinjal, Tomato): Fruit and shoot borers, aphids, and defoliating beetles
Application Precautions and Operator Safety
Because phenthoate is an active organophosphate, operators must observe strict personal protective protocols during handling.
Avoid spraying during flower bloom to safeguard honeybees, and prevent chemical drift into fish culture ponds or livestock troughs.
- Operator Safety: Wear rubber gloves, chemical-resistant apron, goggles, and respiratory masks during dilution and spraying
- Pollinator Safety: Highly toxic to bees; avoid spraying during active daylight honeybee foraging hours
- Pre-Harvest Interval: Adhere to statutory withholding periods specified on the official CIBRC container label
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is phenthoate 50% EC used for?
It is an organophosphate insecticide used to control borers, leaf folders, bollworms, and sucking pests in rice, cotton, and vegetables.
What is the mode of action of phenthoate?
It inhibits the acetylcholinesterase enzyme, causing nervous system paralysis in targeted pests.
Is phenthoate safe for beneficial pollinators?
No, phenthoate is toxic to honeybees; applications should avoid crop flowering periods.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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