Sodium fluoroacetate

Sodium fluoroacetate is a potent inorganic compound and pesticide that is often used to control predator populations. It is also known as 1080, a reference to the catalogue number of the product. Sodium fluoroacetate is a sodium salt of fluoroacetic acid, and is one of the most potent rodenticides available.

Chemistry

Sodium fluoroacetate is a white, odorless, tasteless powder that is highly soluble in water. It is a simple ionic compound consisting of the sodium cation (Na+) and the fluoroacetate anion (C2H2FO2-). The lethal dose for humans is estimated to be 2-10 mg/kg.

Mode of Action

Sodium fluoroacetate is a metabolic poison that disrupts the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle) in organisms. It is converted in the body to fluorocitrate, which binds to the enzyme aconitase, thereby blocking the citric acid cycle and resulting in an energy crisis in the cell.

Uses

Sodium fluoroacetate is used primarily as a pesticide, particularly for controlling predator populations. It is also used in some countries as a rodenticide. Its use is controversial due to its high toxicity and the risk of non-target species ingesting the poison.

Safety and Environmental Concerns

Due to its high toxicity, the use of sodium fluoroacetate is heavily regulated in many countries. There are also concerns about its persistence in the environment and potential for bioaccumulation. Non-target species, including pets and livestock, can be poisoned if they ingest bait intended for pests.

See Also

• Fluoroacetic acid
• Pesticide
• Citric acid cycle

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