Diflubenzuron

When it comes to pest issues like moths, boll weevils and caterpillars, the larvae are more damaging than the adults. That is why the active ingredient Diflubenzuron is so sought after by pest control professionals for its ability to kill such pests and also act as an insect growth regulator to address destructive larvae.

On this page, we will share with you some background information on Diflubenzuron, a popular dual-action active ingredient. We will cover its origin and why it is so effective. Here you can also shop the top-recommended insecticide we have in stock which contains Diflubenzuron.

What is Diflubenzuron?

Diflubenzuron is an insecticide and miticide designed to control the plant damaging larvae of insects that feast upon plants on commercial, residential and agricultural sites. Diflubenzuron is primarily used as an insect growth regulator for gypsy moths, mosquito larvae, and rust mites among others. Diflubenzuron was first registered as a pesticide in the U.S. in 1976.

In agricultural settings, Diflubenzuron is used to protect livestock, crops, ornamentals and shrubbery and hinder the development of mosquito larvae and gypsy moth populations. Diflubenzuron comes in a number of different formulations such as liquid concentrates, wettable powders and in granular form. 

How Does Diflubenzuron Work?

Diflubenzuron works by causing a sort of premature birth where the larvae will not be able to survive. The active ingredient does this by interfering with the normal synthesis of insect exoskeletons during the molting process at the time of egg hatching.

By inhibiting the production of chitin which is used by insects to develop their exoskeleton, Diflubenzuron triggers insect larvae to molt early without a properly formed exoskeleton. This results in the eventual death of the larvae. 

Benefits of Diflubenzuron

Diflubenzuron is an effective insect growth regulator and is primarily active through ingestion making it less toxic to non-intended insect targets.

Drawbacks of Diflubenzuron

Diflubenzuron is a slow-acting chemical, so you may not see results right away and have to be patient. Also since it is an IGR, it will not harm or kill adult insect pests. There are some target pests that can develop resistance to the active ingredient and thus you may have to rotate the product with other insecticides that have a different mode of action.

Is Diflubenzuron Safe?

Diflubenzuron is safe to use when applied according to label directions. When handling products containing Diflubenzuron make sure to have on the proper PPE in the form of gloves and protective clothing when spraying the products. Please read the label carefully and adhere to the safety measures on the label when applying the product.

What To Expect

Diflubenzuron is a slow-acting IGR, requiring up to 14 days for results and a significant depletion of the target insect population. While it does not kill adult insects, it sterilizes some female species of insects.

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Another product that is similar to Diflubenzuron is Pivot 10 IGR. This is an IGR liquid concentrate that can be applied to control a broad range of insect pests, hindering the development of eggs and larvae.