Phosfolan

Phosfolan

0Phosfolan is an organophosphate insecticide that is used to control a variety of pests in a wide range of crops. It is a systemic insecticide, which means it is absorbed by the plant and distributed throughout its tissues, providing protection against insects that feed on the plant.

Chemistry

Phosfolan is a phosphorothioate, a type of organophosphate where one of the oxygen atoms in the phosphate group is replaced by a sulfur atom. Its chemical formula is C8H17O4PS2. It is a colorless to yellow liquid with a mild odor.

Mode of Action

Phosfolan works by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase in the nervous system of insects. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that carries signals between nerve cells. When acetylcholinesterase is inhibited, acetylcholine builds up in the nerve synapses, causing overstimulation and eventual paralysis of the insect.

Use and Application

Phosfolan is used on a variety of crops, including cotton, soybeans, potatoes, and fruit trees. It is applied as a soil treatment before planting, or as a foliar spray during the growing season. It is effective against a wide range of pests, including aphids, thrips, and whiteflies.

Safety and Environmental Impact

Like other organophosphates, phosfolan is highly toxic to humans and animals if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. It is also toxic to birds, fish, and beneficial insects. It is not persistent in the environment, breaking down in soil and water within a few weeks.

Regulation

In the United States, phosfolan is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). It is classified as a Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP), meaning it can only be used by certified applicators.

See Also

• Organophosphate poisoning
• Pesticide toxicity to bees
• Integrated pest management

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