Insecticides are chemicals that kill, control, or repel insects. Pesticides are used to protect crops, gardens, and other plants from damage caused by insects.
These insecticides kill or incapacitate insects by interfering with their nervous or respiratory systems. Insecticides include contact insecticides, systemic insecticides, stomach poisons, fumigants, and repellents. Therefore, their use is often regulated and requires careful application and management.
Fungicides can be used in the following ways:
01
OrganophosphatesThese insecticides work by disrupting the nervous system of insects. Often used to control pests, they can also harm non-target organisms.
02
PyrethroidsPhyrethrins are natural insecticides found in chrysanthemum flowers. They work by affecting the nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death.
03
NeonicotinoidsPlants absorb these insecticides, which provide long-term protection against insects. Neurotoxins can be highly effective, but can also harm non-target organisms.
04
BiopesticidesPlants and bacteria are used to make these insecticides, which are considered to be less harmful to the environment and non-target organisms.
05
Insect growth regulatorsInterfering with insect development prevents them from maturing into reproductive adults. They are often used to control pests such as mosquitoes and fleas.
06
BotanicalsThey are derived from natural plant sources, such as essential oils, and are relatively safe for humans and the environment. They can be effective against a range of insect pests.
07
Microbial insecticidesThese insecticides use bacteria or viruses that are specific to certain insect pests. Pests are often controlled with them as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) program.
Used of Insecticides
An insecticide used improperly or in excessive amounts can harm the environment and human health. Because of this, their use is often regulated. Utilizing a range of techniques, such as crop rotation, natural predators, and cultural practices, can also help reduce the need for insecticides.
There are several types of fungicides:
The choice of fungicide depends on the type of crop, the specific disease or fungal pathogen, and the mode of action of the fungicide.
They are commonly used in agriculture to protect crops from insect pests that can cause significant damage and reduce yields. They are often applied as sprays or dusts to the leaves or soil around the crops.
They are also used in forestry to control pests that can damage or kill trees, such as the spruce budworm or pine beetle. In some cases, these insecticides are sprayed directly on the tree or injected directly into it.
They are used in public health to control disease-carrying insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. They are applied as sprays, treated bed nets, or in areas where these pests are known to breed, such as standing water.
Pests such as ants, cockroaches, and bedbugs are controlled by using insecticides in households in order to eliminate these pests. There are various types of products that can be used to control these pests, including sprays, baits, and foggers, among others.
Use of insecticides depends on the type of insecticide and the target pest, as well as the setting.
- Identify the pest
- Choose the right insecticide
- Read the label
- Mix and apply the insecticide
- Follow safety precautions
- Monitor results
Furthermore, insecticides should only be used as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) program, which includes crop rotation, natural predators, and cultural practices.