Chemical Class and Ryanodine Receptor Mode of Action
Chlorantraniliprole belongs to the anthranilic diamide class (IRAC Group 28 - Ryanodine receptor modulators). It acts by binding to ryanodine receptors located in insect muscle cells, stimulating an unregulated release of internal calcium reserves.
Depletion of intracellular calcium stops muscle contractions, causing rapid feeding cessation, muscular paralysis, and death. Susceptible larvae cease feeding within hours of exposure, preventing further crop tissue destruction.
- Novel IRAC Group 28: Highly effective against insect populations resistant to organophosphates and synthetic pyrethroids.
- Systemic and Translaminar Movement: Absorbed through foliage and roots, redistributing within the plant to protect fresh growth.
- Ovi-Larvicidal Efficacy: Controls pests across egg-hatching and young larval instars.
Target Pests and Labeled Field Crops
Sikosa is officially registered under CIBRC standards for controlling major lepidopteran pests across field and vegetable crops. In paddy farming, it delivers protection against yellow stem borer (Scirpophaga incertulas) and leaf folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis).
In sugarcane, it manages early shoot borer and top borer; in cotton, it controls American bollworm and spotted bollworm; and in vegetables, it protects tomato and brinjal against fruit borers.
- Paddy Protection: Eliminates dead hearts during tillering and white heads during panicle emergence.
- Sugarcane Health: Prevents shoot borer attacks that stunt early cane tillering.
- Fruit Borer Suppression: Protects tomato and vegetable fruits from internal caterpillar tunneling.
Application Guidelines and Resistance Stewardship
For maximum efficacy, spray Sikosa at early egg hatch or when first-instar caterpillar larvae begin feeding on plant leaves. Apply uniform foliar coverage using calibrated hollow cone nozzles on knapsack sprayers.
Rotate Sikosa applications with insecticides possessing different modes of action (such as spinosyns, avermectins, or oxadiazines) to prevent diamide resistance development among caterpillar populations.
- Rainfastness: Displays good rainfast properties once spray deposits have thoroughly dried on the leaf surface.
- Targeted Safety: Demonstrates high safety margins toward beneficial non-target organisms like predatory spiders and bees when used per label directions.
- Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI): Observe statutory waiting periods specified on the registered product container before harvest.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active technical ingredient in Sikosa insecticide?
Sikosa contains Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% w/w SC (Suspension Concentrate), an anthranilic diamide insecticide.
How does Sikosa halt caterpillar damage?
It activates ryanodine receptors to deplete calcium in insect muscle cells, inducing rapid paralysis and feeding cessation within hours.
Which major pests does Sikosa control in rice fields?
It controls yellow stem borer (preventing dead hearts and white heads) and leaf folder caterpillars in rice crops.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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