Novaluron (Rimon), a novel IGR--mechanism, selectivity and importance in IPM programs

Novaluron (Rimon), a new IGR, acts by both ingestion and contact. It is a powerful toxicant for controlling lepidopteran larvae resulting in LC-90 values of 0.42 and 0.30 mg a.i./liter for Spodoptera littoralis and S. exigua, respectively. Its residual activity under field conditions ranges between 10 and 30 days depending on environmental conditions. The compound is a powerful toxicant against developing stages of whiteflies, resulting in LC-90 values of 0.68 and 8.56 mg a.i./liter for Bemisia tabaci and Trialeurodes vaporariorum, respectively. It has translaminar activity, enabling the control of the leaf miner Liriomyza huidobrensis at concentrations ranging between 5 and 45 mg a.i./liter. Novaluron has no cross-resistance with other leading compounds for controlling whiteflies such as buprofezin and pyriproxyfen. It is a rain fast compound suitable in the tropics and in rainy seasons. It has no appreciable effect on parasitoids and phytoseiids and a mild effect on other natural enemies and may be considered a potential component in IPM programs. The compound is in the process of commercialization worldwide by Makhteshim Chemical Works for controlling agricultural pests.