Molluscicide

Molluscicide is a pesticide used to kill mollusks, especially slugs and snails, that damage crops, ornamentals, and nurseries. They are employed in agriculture, horticulture, and home gardens to reduce feeding damage and disease spread carried by mollusks.

Common active ingredients include metaldehyde, methiocarb, ferric phosphate (iron phosphate), and various copper compounds. Metaldehyde and methiocarb are often formulated as baits to attract mollusks; ferric phosphate is marketed as a safer alternative and is less toxic to pets and wildlife when used as directed. Copper-based products act as contact or stomach poisons but can pose risks to aquatic life and some plants.

Mechanisms differ: metaldehyde acts as a stomach poison that disrupts the mollusk's nervous system; methiocarb inhibits cholinesterase; ferric phosphate releases iron and phosphate in the gut, reducing feeding and causing death. Copper compounds have multiple modes of action. Effectiveness depends on moisture, temperature, and pest pressure, and rainfall can wash away bait.

Safety and regulation vary by region. Iron phosphate products are widely used in organic gardening; metaldehyde and methiocarb face stricter controls due to non-target and pet risks. Use according to labels and within integrated pest management strategies to minimize environmental impact.