Fenitrothion: A Broad-Spectrum Organophosphate Insecticide

Technical Introduction

Fenitrothion (IUPAC: O,O-dimethyl O-(3-methyl-4-nitrophenyl) phosphorothioate) is a widely used organophosphate insecticide designed for the control of both sucking and chewing insect pests in agricultural and public health applications. It acts primarily by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE), leading to overstimulation of the insect nervous system.

• Mode of Action: Organophosphate acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (IRAC Group 1B), causing paralysis and death in insects.

• Systemicity: Primarily a contact and stomach poison, with limited systemic activity.

• Target Spectrum: Effective against aphids, leafhoppers, caterpillars, mosquitoes, flies, termites, and locusts.

Applications

• Field Crops:

  • Controls pests on rice, maize, cotton, soybean, and wheat.

• Vegetables & Fruits:

  • Applied to tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, citrus, and orchards to manage sucking and chewing insects.

• Public Health:

  • Used for mosquito and fly control in vector management programs.

• Stored Products & Termites:

  • Controls termites and storage pests in grain silos and structures.

Advantages

• Broad-Spectrum Efficacy: Targets a wide range of chewing and sucking pests in multiple crops.

• Rapid Knockdown: Fast-acting, reducing pest populations quickly.

• Flexible Formulations: Available as EC, WP, ULV, and granules for different applications.

• Cost-Effective: Long history of use with reliable performance.

• Public Health Utility: Effective in vector control programs for mosquitoes and flies.

Specifications (Typical Parameters)

FAQ

Q1: How does Fenitrothion affect pests?
A: It inhibits acetylcholinesterase, causing continuous nerve stimulation, paralysis, and eventual death.

Q2: Is Fenitrothion systemic?
A: No. It is primarily a contact and stomach poison, requiring pests to ingest or contact it.

Q3: Can Fenitrothion be used during flowering?
A: It is highly toxic to pollinators. Avoid application during flowering or when bees are active.

Q4: What crops benefit most from Fenitrothion?
A: Rice, cotton, vegetables, and orchards benefit significantly due to its broad-spectrum control of both sucking and chewing pests.

Q5: Are there environmental concerns?
A: Yes. Fenitrothion is toxic to aquatic organisms, fish, and beneficial insects. Proper handling, PPE, and adherence to label instructions are critical.