Chlorantraniliprole is a synthetic insecticide belonging to the anthranilic diamide class. First registered for use in 2008, it controls various insect pests in agricultural and horticultural settings.
This insecticide is selective, targeting specific insect groups to minimize impact on other organisms. It is effective in managing pest populations across a broad range of crops. Chlorantraniliprole is often considered a reduced-risk pesticide for certain applications by regulatory bodies.
How Chlorantraniliprole Works
Chlorantraniliprole functions by targeting a specific receptor in insect muscle cells known as the ryanodine receptor. When an insect ingests or comes into contact with chlorantraniliprole, the insecticide binds to these receptors. This binding causes an uncontrolled release of calcium ions within the muscle cells.
The excessive calcium disrupts the normal regulation of muscle contraction, leading to muscle paralysis. Once paralyzed, the insect stops feeding and eventually dies. This mechanism is highly specific to insects, as their ryanodine receptors differ significantly from those in mammals, ensuring selective toxicity.
The insecticide is effective against susceptible pest populations. It is primarily toxic to insects when eaten, though it can also affect insect eggs, larvae, and pupae upon contact. Its systemic properties allow it to be absorbed by plants and distributed throughout their vascular system, providing long-lasting protection to both leaves and roots.
Target Pests and Common Uses
Chlorantraniliprole is highly effective against a variety of insect pests, particularly those from the order Lepidoptera, which includes moths and butterfly caterpillars. It also controls certain beetles and “true” bugs, such as aphids and spittlebugs. This broad spectrum of activity targets key agricultural pests.
The insecticide is widely used in agriculture on a diverse range of crops. Common applications include fruits, vegetables, potatoes, rice, cotton, turf grass, and ornamental plants. Specific examples of pests it targets include the diamondback moth, tobacco budworm, corn rootworm, fall armyworm, codling moth, leafrollers, fruit flies, cabbage worm, tomato hornworm, white grubs, and billbugs.
Its efficacy against resistant pest populations makes it a valuable component in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. In IPM, chlorantraniliprole can be used to manage pests while minimizing disruption to beneficial insects and the environment. It is available in various formulations, including granules, concentrates, and liquids, for different application methods.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Chlorantraniliprole demonstrates low toxicity to non-target organisms like mammals, birds, and fish. This contributes to its reduced environmental impact compared to older insecticide classes.
The insecticide’s impact on beneficial insects, such as pollinators and natural predators, is generally low when used according to label instructions. This selectivity helps preserve insect biodiversity within treated ecosystems. Its limited effect on beneficial species supports sustainable pest management practices.
In the environment, chlorantraniliprole breaks down over time, though its persistence can vary depending on soil type and environmental conditions. Regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have evaluated its safety data. The EPA has classified chlorantraniliprole as a reduced-risk pesticide for specific uses, reflecting its comprehensive safety assessments.