Bifenthrin is a widely used synthetic pyrethroid insecticide, chemically modeled after natural compounds found in chrysanthemum flowers. This broad-spectrum chemical is popular in residential, commercial, and agricultural settings due to its effectiveness against a large number of pest species. It is a versatile product, available in various formulations like liquid concentrates and granules, allowing for application both indoors and outdoors. It provides rapid results while maintaining a residual effect for long-term control.
How Bifenthrin Kills Pests
Bifenthrin functions as a neurotoxin, targeting the nervous system of insects to cause paralysis and death. It belongs to a class of insecticides known as sodium channel modulators. The chemical works by binding to and preventing the closing of voltage-gated sodium channels located within the nerve cell membranes.
This interference keeps the channels open, resulting in the continuous firing and hyperexcitation of the insect’s nervous system. This overstimulation quickly leads to paralysis, often referred to as a “knockdown” effect. The insect is unable to move or feed following exposure, and death occurs shortly thereafter. Bifenthrin works through two main routes: contact with the treated surface or direct ingestion.
Key Pest Groups Controlled
Bifenthrin provides broad-spectrum control against more than 75 different pest species that invade structures, lawns, and gardens. Among the most common targets are arachnids such as spiders, mites, and ticks. It is commonly used to manage infestations of brown recluse spiders and various species of lawn ticks.
The insecticide is frequently applied to control crawling perimeter pests that often enter homes and buildings. This category includes many types of ants (such as fire ants and carpenter ants), cockroaches, and silverfish. Bifenthrin’s residual nature makes it particularly useful as a barrier treatment to prevent these pests from crossing the foundation into a structure.
It also defends against wood-destroying organisms that pose a threat to property. Subterranean termites are a primary target, where the product is used to create a chemical barrier in the soil around foundations. The insecticide also controls other destructive pests, including carpenter bees, which bore into wooden structures.
In lawn and ornamental settings, bifenthrin controls pests that damage turf and plants. This includes surface-feeding insects and those that feed on foliage and roots. It is also used to manage mosquitoes, flies, and wasps.
Lawn and Ornamental Pests
- Fleas
- Chinch bugs
- Sod webworms
- Mole crickets
- Armyworms
- Certain types of beetles
Guidelines for Safe Application
Applying bifenthrin safely requires adherence to the instructions provided on the product label, which are mandated by regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Outdoor treatments often remain effective for four to eight weeks, while indoor applications can last up to 12 weeks. For perimeter treatments, the chemical is typically applied as a coarse spray to the foundation of the structure and the soil immediately adjacent to it.
Bifenthrin is extremely toxic to fish and other aquatic invertebrates. Applicators must prevent runoff or drift into drainage systems, storm sewers, or any body of water. Avoid applying the product just before heavy rainfall and ensure that a vegetative buffer exists near aquatic habitats.
Precautions must also protect non-target organisms like pollinators, as the insecticide is highly toxic to bees. Applications should be avoided when bees are actively visiting blooming crops or weeds in the treatment area. For the safety of humans and pets, treated areas should be kept clear until the spray has completely dried. When handling the product, individuals should wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, long pants, and long sleeves.