Active constituents and novel mode of action
Spinosad binds allosterically to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) at a unique site distinct from neonicotinoids, classified under IRAC Group 5. It causes continuous nerve firings, muscle contractions, tremors, feeding cessation, and neuromuscular exhaustion without cross-resistance to existing organophosphate or pyrethroid chemistries.
- Active ingredients: Spinosyn A and Spinosyn D (naturalyte class)
- Chemical family: Spinosyns (IRAC Group 5)
- Dual uptake: Contact and ingestion activity with excellent translaminar leaf penetration
Target crops and major insect pests
- Chili: Yellow thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis) and fruit borers.
- Cotton: American bollworm, spotted bollworm, and thrips.
- Cole crops and vegetables: Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) and tomato pinworm.
- Pulses: Gram pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera).
Pollinator precautions and label directions
While spinosad has low mammalian toxicity and a favorable environmental profile, wet spray deposits are toxic to honeybees. Avoid spraying during daylight bee foraging hours. Once spray residues dry on foliage (within 3 to 4 hours), toxicity to beneficial pollinators decreases dramatically. Follow CIBRC label doses and pre-harvest intervals.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the biological origin of Spinosad?
Spinosad is produced through aerobic fermentation of the naturally occurring soil actinomycete Saccharopolyspora spinosa.
Does Spinosad control thrips effectively in chili?
Yes, spinosad provides high translaminar efficacy against both flower thrips and foliage thrips in chili.
Is Spinosad toxic to beneficial honeybees?
Wet spray droplets are toxic to bees; however, dried residues are substantially safer, so spraying should only occur during evening hours.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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