Synergistic chemical properties and dual action
The premix pairs an organophosphate and a synthetic pyrethroid to maximize lethal efficacy while minimizing resistance development.
- Dual neurotoxic mode of action: Profenofos inhibits acetylcholinesterase, while Cypermethrin disrupts sodium channel nerve transmission.
- Potent ovicidal activity: Profenofos penetrates insect egg shells, destroying embryos before larvae can hatch and burrow into tissues.
- Translaminar penetration: Absorbs into leaf tissue to control hidden larvae and nymphs feeding on leaf undersides.
- Swift knockdown action: Cypermethrin causes immediate paralysis upon insect contact, preventing further crop feeding damage.
Target crops and major insect pest complexes
The combination is officially registered for difficult-to-control chewing caterpillars and mixed pest complexes.
- Cotton: American bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera), spotted bollworm, pink bollworm, and tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura).
- Pulses and soybean: Pod borers, leaf rollers, and semilooper caterpillars.
- Vegetables: Fruit and shoot borers in brinjal and okra, as well as diamondback moth in cole crops.
- Suppression of sucking pests: Concurrently suppresses aphid and jassid populations.
Safe spraying protocols and resistance stewardship
Apply when pest populations cross economic threshold levels (ETL) using standard spray equipment with hollow cone nozzles. Because of its broad-spectrum neurotoxicity, operators must wear protective rubber gloves, face masks, and eye protection. Avoid consecutive repeated sprays by alternating with insecticides from alternative chemical classes such as diamides or spinosyns.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
Why is Profenofos + Cypermethrin widely used in cotton pest control?
It combines rapid pyrethroid knockdown with organophosphate ovicidal and translaminar action, controlling both caterpillar eggs and active larvae.
What is ovicidal action in an insecticide?
Ovicidal action refers to the ability of the chemical to penetrate and kill insect eggs, stopping new larvae from hatching.
What personal protective equipment is required when spraying this mixture?
Applicators must wear full-sleeve protective clothing, chemical-resistant gloves, protective goggles, and a vapour-filtering face mask.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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