Cyfluthrin

Cyfluthrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide used broadly in agriculture, horticulture, and domestic pest control. It is a Type II pyrethroid, distinguished by the presence of an alpha-cyano group, and is typically marketed as a mixture of stereoisomers.

Cyfluthrin acts on the nerve membranes of insects by prolonging the opening of voltage-gated sodium channels, leading to repetitive nerve firing, paralysis, and death. The compound is designed to be more toxic to insects than to mammals due to differences in metabolism and in the sensitivity of sodium channels.

Uses and formulation: It is formulated as emulsifiable concentrates, wettable powders, granules, dusts, and ready-to-use sprays, and is employed against a wide range of pests including caterpillars, beetles, aphids, and mites on crops, ornamentals, stored products, and in urban pest-control products.

Safety and environmental considerations: Cyfluthrin has relatively low acute mammalian toxicity but can cause skin or eye irritation and is harmful if inhaled or ingested. It is highly toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates and can affect non-target organisms such as bees when used during flowering periods. It degrades in the environment primarily by photolysis and biodegradation, but residues can persist in soil and sediments depending on conditions. Resistance has been documented in some pest populations, prompting resistance-management strategies.

Regulatory status: Cyfluthrin is registered for use in many countries under various product formulations. Regulatory assessments by authorities such as the US EPA and the European Food Safety Authority evaluate human health and environmental risks, and label restrictions typically limit use around water bodies, during bloom, or near pollinators.