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Reproductive effects of fenoxycarb on sheep
Summary
Fenoxycarb, an insect growth regulator, showed no adverse reproductive effects in sheep even at high doses. Residues were minimal in newborns, indicating safety for ruminant reproduction in treated pastures.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Reproductive Toxicology
- Insect Growth Regulators
Background:
- Fenoxycarb is an insect growth regulator (IGR) used for fire ant control.
- Concerns exist regarding its reproductive safety in food animals due to potential pasture contamination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the reproductive effects of fenoxycarb in Rambouillet sheep.
- To determine potential risks to ruminant reproduction from fenoxycarb-treated forage.
Main Methods:
- Sheep were dosed daily with fenoxycarb at 0.69 or 1.38 mg/kg/day (10x and 20x recommended levels).
- Reproductive parameters assessed included fertility, pregnancy, birth outcomes, and lamb growth.
- Clinical chemistry, organ histology, and fenoxycarb residue levels were analyzed.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences were observed in adult or lamb reproductive parameters between exposed and control groups.
- No clinical signs or exposure-related lesions were noted.
- Fenoxycarb residues were detected in ewe livers and milk but minimally transferred to neonates and undetectable in lambs by 28 days.
Conclusions:
- Fenoxycarb, at recommended application rates for fire ant control in pastures, is unlikely to adversely affect ruminant reproduction.
- Transplacental and lactational transfer of fenoxycarb to offspring is minimal.