Talstar

Talstar is a brand of insecticides manufactured by FMC Corporation. The products are formulated around the active ingredient bifenthrin, a synthetic pyrethroid. Talstar formulations are used for turf, ornamental, and structural pest control and are sold in several forms, including emulsifiable concentrates and granules, marketed as Talstar One, Talstar Pro, and related variants for professional and consumer use depending on jurisdiction.

Applications include protection of lawns, ornamentals, and building exteriors from a wide range of pests. Common targets include ants, beetles, caterpillars, aphids, and other garden pests, as well as termites and other structural pests in some formulations. The products act on contact and after ingestion, providing residual control that can last days to weeks depending on formulation and environmental conditions.

Mechanism of action: Bifenthrin is a synthetic pyrethroid that disrupts the nervous system of insects by altering voltage-gated sodium channels, leading to paralysis and death. This mode of action provides broad-spectrum activity against many pests but also raises concerns about non-target effects, particularly on beneficial insects and aquatic organisms if misapplied.

Safety and environmental considerations: Talstar should be used according to the label. It is toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates and can be harmful to bees if applied to blooming plants or during forage periods. It may irritate skin and eyes in humans. It can exhibit moderate persistence in some environments. Applicators should wear protective equipment and avoid runoff into water bodies. In the United States, some Talstar products are restricted-use pesticides requiring trained applicators; local regulations apply.

Regulatory status: Talstar is registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for certain uses; labels specify application rates, target pests, and safety precautions. Availability and permitted uses vary by country and region.