Chemical Class & Mode of Action
Lambda-cyhalothrin is a Type II synthetic pyrethroid possessing a cyano group that provides potent insecticidal efficacy at low active dosages. It functions as a voltage-gated sodium channel modulator (IRAC Group 3A).
By keeping sodium channels open along the nerve axon, it triggers continuous repetitive nerve impulses, leading to rapid insect paralysis, feeding cessation, and death.
- Active Ingredient: Lambda-cyhalothrin (available as 5% EC and 4.9% CS formulations)
- IRAC Classification: Group 3A (Sodium channel modulators / Type II pyrethroids)
- Action Spectrum: Powerful contact, stomach, and repellent activity with immediate knock-down action
- Formulation Technology: Advanced Capsule Suspension (CS) technology provides extended foliar rainfastness and UV stability
Target Pests & Labeled Field Crops
Lambda-cyhalothrin holds extensive CIBRC registrations across field and horticultural crops in India. It is primarily targeted against lepidopteran caterpillar larvae and select sucking bugs.
Major labeled crops include cotton (bollworms), paddy (stem borer, leaf folder), tomatoes (fruit borer), chillies, pigeon peas, and brinjal.
- Caterpillar Borers: Highly effective against bollworms, fruit borers (Helicoverpa armigera), and shoot borers
- Paddy Pests: Controls yellow stem borer and leaf folder caterpillars during active vegetative and panicle stages
- Repellent Effect: Acts as a strong behavioral repellent, discouraging insect oviposition on treated foliage
- Low Application Rate: High biological potency requires only low active ingredient dosages per acre
Resistance Management & Environmental Safety
Synthetic pyrethroids must be handled responsibly to prevent pest resistance and flaring of secondary pests (such as spider mites). Rotate with diamide or bio-pesticide chemistries representing different IRAC groups.
Lambda-cyhalothrin carries high toxicity to aquatic life and honeybees. Avoid spraying during crop peak bloom hours, and maintain protective buffer strips away from watercourses.
- Pollinator Protection: Spray during late afternoon hours when bees and pollinators have returned to hives
- Aquatic Caution: Prevent spray drift and washings from entering irrigation canals or aquaculture ponds
- Personal Protective Gear: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, full-face visor, long sleeves, and safety footwear
- PHI Compliance: Strictly adhere to the pre-harvest interval (PHI) declared on the CIBRC statutory container label
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) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active chemical ingredient in Syngenta Matador?
The active ingredient is Lambda-cyhalothrin, a potent synthetic pyrethroid insecticide (IRAC Group 3A) that provides rapid contact knockdown.
Why is Lambda-cyhalothrin formulated as a Capsule Suspension (CS)?
The CS formulation encapsulates active molecules inside microscopic polymer capsules, protecting them from UV degradation and providing extended residual control.
Can Lambda-cyhalothrin cause flare-ups of red spider mites?
Yes, repeated use of synthetic pyrethroids can kill predatory phytoseiid mites without controlling spider mites, occasionally triggering secondary mite outbreaks; rotational spraying is recommended.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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