Kontaktmürgid

Kontaktmürgid, also known as contact poisons, are a class of pesticides that kill or incapacitate pests upon direct physical contact. Unlike systemic pesticides that are absorbed by the plant and ingested by the pest, or stomach poisons that are ingested by the pest, kontaktmürgid act on the surface of the pest's body. This means that the pest must come into direct contact with the poison for it to be effective.

The mechanism of action for kontaktmürgid varies depending on the specific chemical compound. Some disrupt the pest's nervous system, leading to paralysis and death. Others may interfere with respiration, digestion, or molting processes. Common examples of kontaktmürgid include certain types of pyrethroids, organophosphates, and carbamates, although many newer chemistries also fall into this category.

Kontaktmürgid are often used in agricultural settings, home gardens, and for public health purposes to control insects, mites, and other arthropod pests. Their effectiveness is dependent on thorough coverage of the pest's habitat, as they do not move within the target organism. Application methods typically involve spraying or dusting. While effective for immediate pest control, their broad-spectrum nature can sometimes lead to the unintended harm of beneficial insects. Persistence on surfaces and potential for environmental contamination are also considerations for their use.