Hexythiazox: A Selective Acaricide with Ovicidal and Larvicidal Action

Technical Introduction

Hexythiazox (IUPAC: trans-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-cyclohexyl-4-methyl-2-oxothiazolidine-3-carboxamide) is a selective acaricide belonging to the thiazolidine class.

It is highly effective as an ovicidal, larvicidal, and nymphicidal agent, but shows little or no effect on adult mites. By disrupting the molting process, it prevents immature mites from developing into adults, thereby suppressing population growth.

• Mode of Action: Inhibits mite development by interfering with chitin biosynthesis (IRAC Group 10A).

• Selectivity: Targets eggs, larvae, and nymphs of phytophagous mites, while sparing beneficial predators.

• Systemicity: Non-systemic, but provides long residual control through leaf adherence.

Applications

• Agriculture:

  • Used on cotton, citrus, apples, pears, grapes, strawberries, tea, vegetables, maize, and ornamentals.

  • Controls species like two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), European red mite (Panonychus ulmi), citrus red mite, and brown almond mite.

• Integrated Pest Management (IPM):

  • Due to selectivity, it is compatible with natural enemies and beneficial insects.

Advantages

• Excellent Ovicidal Action: Prevents mite outbreaks by destroying eggs before hatching.

• Targets Immature Stages: Kills larvae and nymphs, stopping population growth.

• Long Residual Effect: Protects crops for 30–50 days, reducing application frequency.

• Resistance Management Tool: Different mode of action compared to organophosphates and pyrethroids.

• Beneficial Insect Safety: Minimal impact on pollinators and predatory mites.

Specifications (Typical Parameters)

FAQ

Q1: Does Hexythiazox kill adult mites?
A: No, it is ineffective against adults but strongly controls eggs, larvae, and nymphs.

Q2: How does Hexythiazox prevent mite outbreaks?
A: Its ovicidal activity stops eggs from hatching, and its larvicidal/nymphicidal action prevents immature mites from maturing.

Q3: How long does Hexythiazox remain effective after spraying?
A: It provides 30–50 days of residual protection, depending on crop and environment.

Q4: Can Hexythiazox be used in IPM programs?
A: Yes, it is compatible with beneficial insects such as predatory mites and pollinators.

Q5: Is Hexythiazox safe for crops like grapes and citrus?
A: Yes, it is widely used in grapevine and citrus orchards, where mites are major pests.

Q6: Can Hexythiazox be rotated with other acaricides?
A: Yes, to prevent resistance it should be rotated with acaricides from different IRAC groups.