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Crop Protection & Pesticides

Plethora Insecticide: Novaluron + Indoxacarb Caterpillar Care

Plethora is a broad-spectrum combination insecticide containing Novaluron 5.25% + Indoxacarb 4.5% SC, formulated by Adama for managing lepidopteran caterpillar pests. Combining an insect growth regulator (IGR) with a sodium channel blocker, it controls pests across multiple life stages from eggs to mature larvae.

Last reviewed: 10 November 2026

Dual active chemistries and modes of action

  • Novaluron (5.25%): Benzoylurea insect growth regulator (IRAC Group 15) that inhibits chitin synthesis during larval moulting, preventing caterpillar development.
  • Indoxacarb (4.5%): Voltage-gated sodium channel blocker (IRAC Group 22A) that halts nerve impulse transmission, causing rapid paralysis and cessation of feeding.
  • Cross-spectrum synergy: Delivers both fast knockdown from Indoxacarb and long-lasting ovicidal/larvicidal protection from Novaluron.

Target caterpillar pests and approved crops

  • Soybean: Controls aggressive defoliators including tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) and semiloopers.
  • Chilli and tomato: Manages fruit borers (Helicoverpa armigera) and pinworms, preventing fruit bore holes and rotting.
  • Cotton: Effectively suppresses American bollworm and spotted bollworm complexes.
  • Cabbage and cauliflower: Controls diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) larvae exhibiting pyrethroid resistance.

Application practices and safety guidelines

  • Apply at early larval hatch or when monitoring traps confirm threshold levels of adult moths and egg masses.
  • Dilute in clean water and apply with hollow-cone nozzles to ensure thorough deposition across upper and lower leaf surfaces.
  • Follow CIBRC approved label recommendations, wear personal protective equipment, and observe the prescribed pre-harvest interval.

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 (CIBRC) ↗

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Common questions

What is the technical formulation of Plethora insecticide?

Plethora contains Novaluron 5.25% + Indoxacarb 4.5% SC (Suspension Concentrate).

How does Novaluron control caterpillar pests?

Novaluron inhibits chitin synthesis, preventing caterpillar larvae from forming new exoskeletons during moulting.

Which major pests does Plethora control in soybean?

It controls defoliating caterpillars including Spodoptera litura and semiloopers in soybean crops.

Does Plethora possess ovicidal action?

Yes, it prevents fertile eggs from hatching into viable larvae while paralyzing actively feeding caterpillars.

General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.

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