Chemical Nature and Systemic Conversion
Upon absorption by plant tissues, thiophanate-methyl metabolizes rapidly into carbendazim (methyl benzimidazol-2-ylcarbamate).
This active metabolite binds to beta-tubulin during fungal cell division, halting spindle formation and arresting fungal hyphal growth across roots, stems, and leaves.
- Active Molecule: Thiophanate-methyl (commonly formulated as 70% WP or 450 g/L SC)
- FRAC Group: Group 1 (microtubule assembly inhibitor)
- Vascular Movement: Acropetal translocation moving upward through the plant xylem system
Registered Uses and Crop Coverage
Thiophanate-methyl is used for seed treatment, soil drenching, and foliar spraying in Indian agriculture.
It is effective against soil-borne Fusarium wilts, Rhizoctonia root rot, and foliar anthracnose blights in pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables.
- Papaya and Grapes: Powdery mildew and anthracnose fruit spot control
- Pulses (Gram and Pigeon Pea): Seed treatment and drenching for vascular Fusarium wilt
- Groundnut: Tikka leaf spot (Cercospora arachidicola) suppression
- Apple: Pre-harvest and post-harvest scab and brown rot prevention
Application Standards and Precautions
Ensure adequate hydration and agitation when preparing 70% wettable powder suspensions to maintain uniform distribution.
Avoid continuous mono-application of thiophanate-methyl to prevent the emergence of resistant benzimidazole-tolerant fungal strains.
- Seed Dressing Rate: Follow labeled seed treatment dosages to protect young seedlings from damping-off
- Foliar Volume: Use 200 liters of water per acre with fine spray distribution
- Rotational Regimen: Alternate with dithiocarbamates (mancozeb) or strobilurin fungicides
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 ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the mode of action of thiophanate-methyl?
It converts within plant tissues into carbendazim, which inhibits beta-tubulin assembly during fungal mitosis.
Can thiophanate-methyl be used as a seed treatment?
Yes, it is registered for dry or wet seed treatment to protect sprouting seedlings from damping-off and seed-borne fungal rots.
Is thiophanate-methyl safe for horticultural crops?
When applied according to official CIBRC label recommendations, it is safe and non-phytotoxic to specified fruit and vegetable crops.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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