Profenofos 500 g/L EC

ICAMA Reg. No. PD20182902

Product Category: Insecticides 

A broad-spectrum organophosphate insecticide and acaricide designed to effectively control cotton bollworm, aphids in vegetables, and spider mites in ornamentals.

Key Features:

1.      Dual Action: Exhibits both contact and stomach toxicity, ensuring rapid knockdown and effective pest control.

2.      Translaminar Movement: Penetrates leaf tissues to control pests on both upper and lower leaf surfaces.

3.      Ovicidal Properties: Effective against eggs of certain pest species, disrupting their life cycle.

Detailed Description:

This emulsifiable concentrate formulation contains 500 g/L profenofos, an organophosphate compound renowned for its efficacy against a wide range of insect and mite pests. Profenofos functions by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the nervous system of pests. By phosphorylating the serine residue at the active site of AChE, profenofos prevents the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, leading to its accumulation. This results in continuous nerve impulse transmission, causing paralysis and eventual death of the pest. Notably, profenofos does not require metabolic activation to exert its inhibitory effect on AChE. Upon application, profenofos demonstrates translaminar movement, allowing it to penetrate leaf tissues and control pests residing on both surfaces. Its ovicidal properties further enhance its utility by targeting the egg stages of certain pests, thereby interrupting their reproductive cycle.

Effective Against:

·         Cotton:

• Cotton Bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera): Larvae cause significant damage by boring into bolls, leading to yield losses.

• Aphids (Aphis gossypii): Sap-sucking insects that weaken plants and transmit viral diseases.

• Spider  Mites (Tetranychus spp.): Microscopic arachnids causing leaf discoloration and defoliation.

·         Vegetables:

• Aphids (Myzus persicae): Vectors of plant viruses, leading to stunted growth and reduced yields.

• Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella): Caterpillars feed on foliage, creating holes and reducing photosynthetic capacity.

·         Ornamentals:

• Spider Mites (Tetranychus urticae): Cause stippling and bronzing of leaves, affecting aesthetic value.

Registered Scope and Method of Use

Technical Application Requirements:

1.      Timing: For cotton bollworm, apply during the peak egg hatching period to target early instar larvae. For other pests, initiate treatment at the first sign of infestation.

2.      Mixing: Use the two-step dilution method to ensure the product is fully and evenly dispersed in the spray solution.

3.      Application Technique: Utilize calibrated spraying equipment to achieve uniform coverage. Pay special attention to new growth and areas prone to pest infestation.

4.      Environmental Conditions: Avoid application during windy conditions or if rainfall is anticipated within 1 hour to prevent runoff and ensure maximum efficacy.

5.      Safety Measures: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment during mixing and application. Avoid inhalation and contact with skin or eyes. Do not eat, drink, or smoke during application. Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly after handling.

6.      Re-entry Interval: Do not allow entry into treated areas for at least 24 hours post-application without proper protective clothing.

7.      Phytotoxicity: Profenofos is known to be phytotoxic to certain crops such as alfalfa, sorghum, and corn. Ensure that spray drift does not reach these sensitive crops to prevent damage.

8.      Resistance Management: To prevent the development of resistant pest populations, rotate with insecticides having different modes of action and avoid consecutive applications of profenofos.