Methoprene

Methoprene is an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR), which is the active ingredient in the larvicide Altosid™. A larvicide attacks mosquitoes in the larval stage, when they are waterborne and concentrated together, before they emerge as breeding, biting adults. Methoprene's disruption of the mosquito growth cycle allows it to be defined as a bio-rational agent, rather than a conventional pesticide. It specifically targets mosquito larvae, but does not kill them until they reach their next developmental stage, the pupae. This can be key to preserving the natural food chain, since mosquito larvae can be a minor food source for other organisms. In addition, extensive studies have shown that methoprene breaks down quickly in the environment, spares non-target organisms, and poses no hazard to humans.

CMMCP usese methoprene in a product called Altosid™; it can be used in briquet form, a formulation that contains 7.9% methoprene, or in pellets that contain 4.25% methoprene. These are placed in areas where mosquito larvae develop, and over a period of at least 30 and up to 45 days (depending on formulation) methoprene is continually released. CMMCP currently uses methoprene in catch basins for the control of Culex mosquitoes. Control of Culex is important in the control of West Nile Virus.

Methoprene has no effect on mosquitoes that have already reached the pupal or adult stage.

Altosid™ WSP:

Pesticide Label:

• Altosid™ WSP Pesticide Label
• Altosid^TM XR Pesticide Label

Safety Data Sheet:

• Altosid™ WSP Safety Data Sheet
• Altosid^TM XR Safety Data Sheet

Methoprene:

Resources:

• NPIC Methoprene General Fact Sheet