An insect growth regulator is a chemical that inhibits the growth cycle of insects. They are commonly used as insecticides to control populations of harmful insect pests. They can also be used as biocontrol agents. These products are available in various formulations, which help farmers and property owners to combat a variety of common pests.
IGR work by killing the immature stages of plant-feeding insects. Typically, this includes caterpillars, fungus gnats, leafminers, mealybugs, scales, shoreflies, and thrips. Fortunately, these insecticides do not harm humans and other animals.
The main purpose of insect growth regulators is to prevent insects from reaching the adult stage. They inhibit the insect’s growth by inhibiting an enzyme that allows them to produce chitin. Without this enzyme, the insect will not develop its shell, thus preventing it from reaching adulthood. It is also important to note that the effects of IGRs will prevent the insects from laying eggs.
The active ingredient in an insect growth regulator is a molecule called cyromazine. It is a synthetic compound that inhibits the formation of the exoskeleton of an insect. The exoskeleton is the structure to which muscles are attached. In addition to preventing the insect from reaching the adult stage, cyromazine can also inhibit the development of the exocuticle. The resulting effect is a decrease in the exocuticle’s strength and elasticity.
IG regulators are effective against many different insect pests. Their kill time varies and can last anywhere from three to fourteen days, depending on the insect pest and life stage it targets. This means that you can use IGRs for long-term pest control. Insect growth regulators can also slow the development of cockroaches, thereby limiting their population.
IGR compounds play an important role in managing many insect pests that threaten human health. Unlike synthetic insecticides, IGR compounds are safer for nontarget organisms and the environment. They have a high potency against mosquitoes and other pests, and they are widely used to combat the mosquitoes that carry human diseases.