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Inorganic
Insecticides
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WHAT
ARE INSECTICIDES?
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Organochlorines
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Inorganic
minerals such as heavy metals and arsenical compounds
have been used as insecticides, although they
are usually toxic to a wide range of organisms,
and in general are not specific in their action.
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The
word "Insecticide was first used about 130
years ago, although primitive insecticides have
been in use for several thousands of years.
Several categories of insecticides exist:
- Inorganic
- Organochlorines
- Organophosphates
- Carbamates
- Botanicals
- Miscellaneous
Parathion
- An
Acetylcholinesterase
inhibitor
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| Advances
in the 1930's with synthetic organic chemistry led
to the rapid development of OC molecules.
Their use is now increasingly restricted. |
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Carbamates
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Organophosphates
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| Synthetic
versions made available in the early 50's, Carbamates
are generally quick acting with relatively low mammalian
toxicity, although exceptions do exist. |
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This
group varies widely in its insecticidal activity
and mammalian toxicity. Mode of action is
the inhibition of the enzyme Cholinesterase -
crucial for normal nervous impulse transmission.
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Botanicals
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Miscellaneous
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Insecticides
of vegetable origin. Many are still used today.
This class of molecules includes Pyrethrin, Nicotine
and Derris.
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| Biologicals,
Fumigants, and other types of insecticide are classified
in this section. |
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