Acetamiprid
What is Acetamiprid?
Acetamiprid is an odorless, neonicotinoid insecticide composed from a synthetic organic compound. Neonicotinoid insecticides target the nervous system of insects causing paralyzation. Neonicotinoid insecticides were discovered in the 1980's and are used throughout the world. Acetamiprid is generally used to protect plants against sucking insects such as aphids, but it has also become common in household pest control to combat bed bugs. It is a broad-spectrum pesticide that can be used on plants ranging from leafy vegetables and fruit trees to ornamental plants.
Where is Acetamiprid used?
Acetamiprid is used on a large variety of crops and trees, including leafy vegetables, citrus fruit, grapes, cotton, canola, cereals, cucumbers, melons, onions, peaches, rice, stone fruit, strawberries, sugar beets, tea, tobacco, pears, apples, peppers, plums, potatoes, tomatoes, house plants, and ornamental plants. Acetamiprid is a key pesticide in commercial cherry farming, since it is effective against larvae of cherry fruit flies. Acetamiprid can be applied to foliage, seed, and soil. Acetamiprid has also gained acceptance in bed bug control programs.
How does Acetamiprid work?
Acetamiprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide that works by antagonizing the nicotine acetylcholine receptors in the neural pathways. This causes interruption of brain signals throughout the insects body. Insects are affected within 30 minutes of treatment with excitement, then paralysis, and finally extermination. Acetamiprid is an ovicidal, larvicidal, and adulticidal, meaning it works at all stages of insect development. Insects are affected mainly by ingestion, and may be affected by some forms of contact as well. Acetamiprid is translaminar, meaning it protects both sides of a leaf surface.
How safe is Acetamiprid?
Acetamiprid has been classified by the EPA as “unlikely” to be a human carcinogen. The EPA has also determined that Acetamiprid has low risks to the environment compared to most other insecticides. Acetamiprid degrades rapidly in soil by soil metabolism and has low toxicity to mammals, birds, and fish. Always apply acetamiprid as directed.
