Tebufenozide: A Target-Specific Insect Growth Regulator for Lepidopteran Pests

Technical Introduction

Tebufenozide is a highly selective insect growth regulator (IGR) that belongs to the diacylhydrazine class of insecticides. It functions as a mimic of the molting hormone ecdysone in insects.

When ingested by larvae, Tebufenozide binds to ecdysone receptors, causing premature and lethal molting. Since this disrupts the natural molting cycle, larvae stop feeding almost immediately, then die within a few days due to incomplete or abnormal molting.

It is particularly effective against Lepidopteran (caterpillar) pests such as armyworms, loopers, and leafrollers, while showing minimal impact on non-target insects, making it a valuable tool in integrated pest management (IPM) and resistance management programs.

Applications

• Field Crops (Rice, Cotton, Maize, Soybean):

  • Controls stem borers, armyworms, bollworms, and cutworms.

• Vegetables (Cabbage, Tomato, Pepper, Lettuce):

  • Highly effective on diamondback moth, tomato fruit borer, and looper species.

• Fruits (Apple, Grape, Citrus):

  • Used against leafrollers, codling moth, and fruit borers.

• Forestry:

  • Controls gypsy moth, pine caterpillars, and other defoliators in forestry plantations.

• Tea and Tobacco:

  • Applied against caterpillar pests while preserving natural enemies.

Advantages

• High Selectivity: Targets only Lepidopteran larvae; safe to bees, predators, and parasitoids.

• Unique Mode of Action: Mimics insect molting hormone, effective against populations resistant to pyrethroids, organophosphates, and carbamates.

• Feeding Cessation: Larvae stop eating almost immediately after ingestion, reducing crop damage.

• Long Residual Control: Remains active on leaf surfaces, providing extended protection.

• Eco-Friendly Profile: Low toxicity to mammals, birds, fish, and most beneficial insects.

• Excellent Fit for IPM & IRM: Compatible with biological control agents and rotation strategies.

Specifications (Typical Parameters)

FAQ

Q1: What pests is Tebufenozide most effective against?
A: It is highly effective against Lepidopteran larvae, including armyworms, bollworms, stem borers, leafrollers, and fruit borers.

Q2: How does it differ from conventional insecticides?
A: Instead of acting on the nervous system, Tebufenozide mimics insect molting hormones, making it safe for beneficial organisms and useful against resistant pest populations.

Q3: Is Tebufenozide safe for beneficial insects?
A: Yes, it has minimal impact on natural enemies (bees, predatory insects, and parasitoids), making it IPM-compatible.

Q4: When should Tebufenozide be applied for best results?
A: It should be applied at early larval stages (2nd–3rd instar), when larvae are actively feeding.

Q5: Does it provide contact activity?
A: Tebufenozide works primarily by ingestion. Caterpillars must consume treated foliage to be affected.

Q6: Can it be rotated with other insecticides?
A: Yes, it is ideal for resistance management programs and should be rotated with insecticides from different IRAC groups.