What is Methoprene?

Methoprene is an amber-colored liquid with a slight fruity odor.

 
Methoprene As an IGR (Insect Growth Regulator) Insecticide

Methoprene is an active ingredient in pesticides known as IGRs (Insect Growth Regulators). Methoprene is used most widely in mosquito control, but is also effective as a growth inhibitor of ants, fleas, ticks, and some cockroaches.

 
What does an IGR do?

An IGR disrupts and impedes the life cycle of insects in the egg and larvae stage of development. The idea with an IGR is that if an insect cannot reach adulthood, it cannot reproduce. In short, IGR is a form of "birth control" for pests which helps keep the populations of unwanted pests under control by preventing current and future infestations. Since IGRs address only the problem of reproduction but do not actually kill the adult insect, it is always a good idea to use a knockdown-and-kill insecticide along with the IGR for ultimate population control.

 
The following pest control products contain Methoprene:

• Altosid Pro-G Mosquito Larvicide- Powerful mosquito larvicide that kills mosquito at their breeding sites--stopping mosquitoes before they even hatch!

• Extinguish Fire Ant Bait- Extinguish with IGR. Does not have insecticide so it is perfect for grazing, rangeland, and crops.

• Precor 2000 Plus Premise Spray- An insect growth regulator (IGR) and residual insecticide for controlling fleas and ticks, ants and cockroaches.

• Precor IGR Concentrate- Contains the insect growth regulator methoprene to stop pre-adult flea development - and future infestations. Not for ticks.

 
Methoprene is classified "Very Low in Toxicity" by the EPA.

Methoprene is almost nontoxic to humans when inhaled or ingested. It is only mildly toxic by absorption through the skin. To insure safety, always be sure to read all instructions on the pest control product label before use.

Related Products Pages:
Mosquito Control
Roach Control
Ant Control
Flea Control


Related Articles:
Insect Growth Regulators 
Get Rid of Mosquitoes