Vinclozolin

Vinclozolin is a fungicide commonly used in the agricultural industry to protect crops from fungal diseases. It is a systemic fungicide, meaning it is absorbed and distributed throughout the plant, providing protection from the inside out. Vinclozolin is particularly effective against Botrytis cinerea, a fungus that causes a disease known as grey mould.

History

Vinclozolin was first registered for use in the United States in 1981. It was developed by BASF, a German chemical company, and is sold under various trade names including Ronilan, Curalan, and Vorlan.

Use

Vinclozolin is used on a wide variety of crops including grapes, strawberries, lettuce, and canola. It is applied as a spray and is absorbed by the plant, providing protection against a range of fungal diseases. The fungicide is most commonly used to control Botrytis cinerea, but it is also effective against other fungi such as Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Monilinia fructicola.

Health and Environmental Impact

Vinclozolin has been classified as a potential endocrine disruptor, meaning it can interfere with the body's hormonal system. Studies have shown that exposure to vinclozolin can cause reproductive and developmental problems in animals. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified vinclozolin as a possible human carcinogen.

In the environment, vinclozolin can persist for a long time, particularly in soil. It can also be harmful to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects and aquatic life.

Regulation

Due to its potential health and environmental impacts, the use of vinclozolin is regulated in many countries. In the United States, the EPA has set tolerance levels for residues of vinclozolin on food crops. In the European Union, the use of vinclozolin has been banned since 2008.

See Also

• Fungicide
• Endocrine disruptor
• Environmental Protection Agency