Biological origin and neurological mode of action
Tracer represents the spinosyn chemical class, bridging the efficacy of synthetic insecticides with the eco-compatibility of natural fermentation products.
- Active constituent: Spinosad, composed of spinosyn A and spinosyn D fermented metabolites.
- Neurotoxic mode of action: Allosterically activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR), causing prolonged nerve excitation, muscle spasms, and rapid paralysis.
- Translaminar penetration: Absorbs into plant foliage to eradicate leaf-mining and leaf-folding larvae concealed within plant tissues.
- Minimal adverse effect on key beneficial insect predators and predatory mites when applied as per label recommendations.
Registered crops and target pest spectrum
Tracer is officially registered across high-value field and horticultural crops in India.
- Cotton: American bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera), spotted bollworm, and thrips.
- Chilli: Management of yellow and black thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis) and fruit borers.
- Tomato and Brinjal: Fruit and shoot borer (Leucinodes orbonalis) and leaf miner larvae.
- Pigeon pea (Red gram): Pod borer complexes damaging developing legume flowers and pods.
Field application guidelines and safety precautions
Apply Tracer upon reaching economic threshold levels (ETL) of pest larvae or nymphs using standard water volumes for thorough coverage. Because Spinosad exhibits acute toxicity to foraging honeybees when wet, avoid spraying during peak daylight flowering hours; resume applications late in the evening when bee activity ceases.
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
What is the active ingredient in Tracer insecticide?
Tracer contains Spinosad (44.03% or 45% SC), a naturally derived spinosyn metabolite produced by soil bacteria.
Which insect pests does Tracer primarily target?
It targets lepidopteran caterpillars including bollworms, fruit and shoot borers, pod borers, and destructive thrips.
Is Tracer safe for foraging bees?
Tracer is toxic to bees on direct contact when wet; spray only during late evening hours when pollinators are not actively foraging.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More Crop Protection & Pesticides guides
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