Meroë

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia



Maneb is a fungicide belonging to the dithiocarbamate chemical group. It is primarily used in agriculture to protect crops from fungal diseases. Maneb is a polymeric complex of manganese with ethylene bis(dithiocarbamate), and it functions by inhibiting the growth of fungi on plants.

Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]

Maneb is a yellowish powder that is insoluble in water. It is stable under normal conditions but can decompose when exposed to high temperatures or acidic conditions. The chemical formula for Maneb is (C4H6MnN2S4)n, indicating its polymeric nature.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Maneb acts by interfering with the enzymatic processes of fungi. It inhibits the activity of certain enzymes that are crucial for the synthesis of essential cellular components in fungi, thereby preventing their growth and reproduction. This makes it effective against a wide range of fungal pathogens.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Maneb is used to control fungal diseases in a variety of crops, including:

It is particularly effective against diseases such as early blight, downy mildew, and anthracnose.

Safety and Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

Maneb is classified as a moderately hazardous pesticide by the World Health Organization (WHO). It can cause skin and eye irritation in humans and is toxic if ingested. Prolonged exposure may lead to more serious health effects, including potential impacts on the nervous system.

In the environment, Maneb can degrade into ethylene thiourea (ETU), a compound that is more persistent and potentially more toxic. Therefore, the use of Maneb is regulated to minimize its environmental impact and ensure safe application practices.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

The use of Maneb is subject to regulation in many countries. In the European Union, for example, its use has been restricted due to concerns about its potential health and environmental effects. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates its application and sets maximum residue limits for food products.

Also see[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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