Active ingredient

Phosametine

Description

Mode of action

Phosametin belongs to the organophosphate class, which acts primarily as a nerve agent against various insect species by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase.

The inhibition of this enzyme causes an accumulation of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft, leading to continuous neural stimulation, paralysis, and death of the pest.

This substance exhibits both contact and stomach activity, meaning it kills insects upon direct contact with the spray droplets or after consuming treated plant tissue.

Due to its chemical structure, phosametin often shows trans-laminar properties, allowing it to control pests hidden on the underside of leaves or within plant structures.

It remains a significant tool in integrated pest management for controlling populations that have developed resistance to other common insecticide classes.

What it targets

Phosametin is primarily used to control a wide range of sucking and chewing insects, including beetles, caterpillars, and aphids in various agricultural settings.

It is highly effective against major crop pests such as weevils, leafrollers, and various species of moths that damage leaves, stems, and developing fruits.

The compound is widely applied in orchards and field crops where high insect pressure poses a threat to both quantitative and qualitative yield indicators.

It provides an essential defense against pests that are otherwise difficult to reach with standard contact-only insecticides due to their feeding habits.

  • Aphids and psyllids
  • Weevils and blossom beetles
  • Leafroller larvae
  • Shield bugs (Stink bugs)

Rates and timing

Application rates for phosametin typically range from 0.5 to 2.0 liters per hectare, depending on the specific formulation and the severity of the pest infestation.

Applications should be timed to coincide with the peak activity of the pest or when infestation levels reach the economic threshold for intervention.

The number of applications per growing season is strictly limited to manage residue levels and prevent the rapid development of resistance in target insect populations.

Uniform distribution of the pesticide is required to ensure optimal efficacy, necessitating the use of calibrated spraying equipment and proper water quality.

It is recommended to perform spraying during the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation and avoid high-temperature degradation of the active ingredient.

Restrictions

Phosametin is toxic to beneficial insects, particularly honeybees, and should never be applied during the blooming period of crops or near active hives.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including respirators, gloves, and protective suits is mandatory to prevent inhalation and skin contact during handling and application.

Compliance with pre-harvest intervals (PHI) is non-negotiable to ensure that the final crop is safe for consumption and meets international residue standards.

Pesticide containers must be stored in secure, well-ventilated facilities, away from food, animal feed, and water sources to avoid accidental contamination.

Prevent drift into non-target areas and sensitive ecosystems by monitoring wind speeds and ensuring proper nozzle selection for droplet size management.

Regulatory

Status in the European Union

Not approved in the EU

Category (EU)
HB - Herbicide
EU legislation

EU status is for reference only and does not replace national registration in your country.