What chemicals are used to poison bugs? - briefly
Common insecticidal agents include organophosphates such as chlorpyrifos, carbamates like carbaryl, synthetic pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin), neonicotinoids such as imidacloprid, and inorganic substances like boric acid and diatomaceous earth.
What chemicals are used to poison bugs? - in detail
Insecticidal compounds employed to eliminate arthropod pests fall into several chemical classes, each with distinct modes of action and regulatory status.
Organophosphates, such as chlorpyrifos and malathion, inhibit acetylcholinesterase, causing accumulation of acetylcholine at neural synapses and resulting in paralysis. These agents are effective against a broad range of insects but face restrictions due to acute toxicity and environmental persistence.
Carbamates, including carbaryl and propoxur, share the acetylcholinesterase‑inhibiting mechanism of organophosphates but generally exhibit lower mammalian toxicity. Their rapid degradation in soil limits long‑term residues.
Pyrethroids, exemplified by permethrin, deltamethrin, and bifenthrin, target voltage‑gated sodium channels, prolonging neuronal depolarization. High potency against insects and low mammalian toxicity make them common for residential and agricultural use, although resistance development is documented.
Neonicotinoids, such as imidacloprid, clothianidin, and thiamethoxam, act as agonists of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the insect central nervous system. Systemic uptake allows treatment of seeds and foliage, yet concerns over pollinator impact have prompted regulatory reviews.
Insect growth regulators (IGRs) interfere with developmental processes. Examples include methoprene (a juvenile hormone analogue) and diflubenzuron (a chitin synthesis inhibitor). These agents prevent maturation or molting, providing control with minimal acute toxicity.
Sulfur and copper compounds, traditionally used in horticulture, exert toxic effects through oxidative stress and membrane disruption. Their low cost and organic certification eligibility support niche applications.
Bacterial toxins, notably Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Cry and Cyt proteins, act as gut‑specific poisons for lepidopteran, coleopteran, and dipteran larvae. Formulations deliver high specificity and environmental safety, though resistance management requires rotation with other classes.
Each class presents advantages and limitations concerning target spectrum, resistance risk, human safety, and ecological impact. Selection of an appropriate agent depends on pest identity, application environment, and compliance with local regulatory frameworks.