Fenobucarb (BPMC) 50% EC

Fenobucarb, commonly known as BPMC, is a carbamate insecticide widely used in agriculture, particularly for rice and cotton.¹ The 50% EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate) formulation is a liquid concentrate designed to be mixed with water for foliar spraying.

Core Function and Target Pests

Fenobucarb is highly valued for its "knockdown" effectit acts quickly upon contact to paralyze and kill pests. It is specifically effective against sucking and chewing insects, including:

• Rice: Brown Plant Hopper (BPH), Green Leaf Hopper (GLH), and Rice Stem Borers.

• Cotton: Aphids, Thrips, and Bollworms.

• Vegetables & Fruits: Thrips, Jassids, and Leafhoppers in crops like Mango, Tomato, and Chilli.

How it Works (Mode of Action)

Fenobucarb is a non-systemic insecticide with contact and stomach action.

• Biochemical Mechanism: It acts as an Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor. It binds to the enzyme responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

• Result: This leads to a continuous transmission of nerve impulses, causing the insect to experience rapid paralysis and death.

Application & Dosage Guidelines

The dosage varies by crop and local recommendations, but general guidelines include:

Note: Always apply at the early stages of pest infestation. A water volume of about 200 liters per acre is typically recommended for uniform coverage.

Safety and Toxicity

• Mammalian Toxicity: Classified as WHO Class II (Moderately Hazardous).¹¹ It is harmful if swallowed or absorbed through the skin.

• Environmental Impact: It is highly toxic to aquatic life and moderately toxic to bees. Avoid spraying near water bodies or during active bee foraging.

• Symptoms of Exposure: Nausea, vomiting, sweating, muscle twitches, and blurred vision.

• Antidote: Atropine sulfate is the standard medical treatment for carbamate poisoning.

Quick Handling Checklist

1. Protective Gear: Wear gloves, a face shield, and long-sleeved clothing during mixing and application.

2. Weather: Do not spray during high winds to prevent drift.

3. Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place away from food, children, and livestock.

4. Waiting Period: The Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI) for rice is generally 30 days.