How long after dichlorvos do fleas die? - briefly
Fleas exposed to dichlorvos typically die within 30 minutes to a few hours, with most individuals succumbing by the one‑hour mark at standard concentrations. Higher doses can cause mortality in as little as 10–20 minutes.
How long after dichlorvos do fleas die? - in detail
Dichlorvos, an organophosphate insecticide, acts by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, leading to rapid nervous system failure in fleas. After a correctly applied dose, adult fleas typically become immobilized within 5–10 minutes and die within 15–30 minutes. Nymphs and eggs are more tolerant; nymphs usually succumb in 30–60 minutes, while eggs may require up to several hours for complete mortality.
Key variables influencing the timeline include:
- Concentration of the spray – higher percentages accelerate nerve disruption.
- Application method – thorough coverage ensures faster contact; spot treatment prolongs exposure.
- Environmental temperature – temperatures above 20 °C increase metabolic rates, shortening the lethal interval.
- Flea life stage – as noted, eggs are the most resistant, followed by nymphs, then adults.
Residual activity persists for days, preventing re‑infestation. However, the immediate lethal effect is confined to the period described above; after this window, surviving stages are unlikely to recover. Proper ventilation and adherence to label instructions are essential to maximize efficacy and safety.