Phosalone

Phosalone is an organophosphate insecticide that is used to control pests on a variety of crops. It is a systemic insecticide, which means it is absorbed by the plant and then ingested by the pest. Phosalone is also used as an acaricide, which is a pesticide that kills mites and ticks.

History

Phosalone was first registered for use in the United States in 1966. It is produced by the chemical synthesis of diethyl chlorothiophosphate and O,O-diethyl mercaptophosphate.

Use

Phosalone is used on a variety of crops including fruit trees, vegetables, cotton, and ornamental plants. It is effective against a wide range of pests including aphids, mites, whiteflies, and caterpillars.

Mode of Action

As an organophosphate insecticide, phosalone works by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase in the nervous system of insects. This causes an accumulation of acetylcholine, leading to continuous nerve impulses and eventually death of the insect.

Environmental Impact

Phosalone is moderately toxic to birds and mammals, and highly toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates. It is also highly toxic to bees. It has a low potential for bioaccumulation and is rapidly degraded in the environment.

Health Effects

Exposure to phosalone can cause a range of health effects in humans, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, headache, dizziness, and weakness. In severe cases, it can cause seizures, unconsciousness, and even death.

Regulation

In the United States, phosalone is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It is classified as a Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP), which means it can only be used by certified applicators.

See Also

• Organophosphate poisoning
• Pesticide toxicity to bees
• Environmental impact of pesticides

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