Insect Growth Regulators

Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs)

Definition: IGRs are insecticides that disrupt the development and reproduction of insects by mimicking or blocking natural hormones. They do not kill insects immediately but prevent them from maturing or reproducing, leading to population decline over time.

Types of IGRs & Their Modes of Action

Juvenile Hormone Analogues (JHAs)

• Examples: Methoprene, Pyriproxyfen, Hydroprene
• Mode of Action:
  • Mimics juvenile hormone (JH), preventing insects from molting into the adult stage.
  • Affected insects remain in the larval or nymph stage and eventually die.
• Target Pests: Fleas, mosquitoes, cockroaches, ants, stored product pests.
• Benefits:
  ✅ Effective for long-term control in insect life cycles.
  ✅ Safe for humans, pets, and beneficial insects.
  ✅ Works well in liquid, aerosol, bait, and fogging formulations.

Chitin Synthesis Inhibitors (CSIs)

• Examples: Diflubenzuron, Novaluron, Lufenuron
• Mode of Action:
  • Prevents insects from producing chitin, an essential component of the exoskeleton.
  • Causes molting failure, leading to death.
• Target Pests: Mosquitoes, cockroaches, fleas, termites, and stored product pests.
• Benefits:
  ✅ Stops insects from reaching adulthood and reproducing.
  ✅ Works well in baits, sprays, and granules.
  ✅ Low toxicity to humans and animals.

Molting Disruptors

• Examples: Azadirachtin (from neem oil)
• Mode of Action:
  • Interferes with ecdysone, the molting hormone.
  • Prevents insects from transitioning between life stages.
• Target Pests: Whiteflies, aphids, caterpillars, thrips, mosquitoes.
• Benefits:
  ✅ Organic and botanical-based option.
  ✅ Works well in IPM (Integrated Pest Management) programs.
  ✅ Repels and disrupts feeding in some insects.

Benefits of IGRs

✅ Long-lasting residual control (weeks to months).
✅ Breaks the life cycle, preventing future infestations.
✅ Safe for people, pets, and non-target wildlife.
✅ Works well with traditional insecticides for dual-action control.
✅ Reduces the risk of pesticide resistance.

Common Uses of IGRs

• Mosquito control (applied to standing water).
• Flea treatments (pet sprays, foggers, premise sprays).
• Cockroach and ant control (bait stations, sprays).
• Stored product pest management (grain storage facilities).
• Structural pest control (termite prevention).

IGRs are a powerful tool in pest management, ensuring long-term population reduction without immediate knockdown effects. They are best used in combination with adulticides for comprehensive pest control.

At BES-TEX Supply, we provide high-quality pest control solutions to meet your needs. Visit us at 4512 Adobe Dr., San Angelo, TX 76903, or call 325.653.1300. Let us help you keep your home and business pest-free!