Spinosad (Saccharopolyspora spinosa)

Natular™ (Spinosyn A and Spinosyn D) is a biological mosquito larvicide whose active ingredient, spinosad, is biologically derived from the fermentation of Saccharopolyspora spinosa, a naturally occurring soil organism. Spinosad has high efficacy, low mammalian toxicity, and a good environmental profile. Spinosad is natural products-based, and approved for use in organic agriculture by numerous national and international certifications.

Natular™ is the first and only complete formulation portfolio of larvicides with a naturally derived active ingredient. Natular™ is in a chemical class different from all other larvicides and has a unique mode of action, together helping fight resistance against other mosquito larvicides. All domestic formulations are also made with inert ingredients that are on the EPA Minimal Risk List.  NatularTM is the first larvicide evaluated as a Reduced Risk product by the EPA. Natular™ G and G30 are listed by OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) as a certified organic pesticide - please see certificates below.

Two other uses for Spinosad are for pets (oral preparations to treat the cat flea in canines and felines) and humans (topical application for head lice).  Spinosad is low in toxicity to people and other mammals.

Spinosad is broken down rapidly by sunlight. In the presence of sunlight, half-lives on leaves are 2 to 16 days and less than one day in water. In the absence of sunlight, spinosad breaks down very slowly in water. Spinosad also sticks to soil and has a very low potential to move through soil towards ground water. In field studies, no break down products of spinosad were found below a soil depth of two feet. In the top layers of soil, spinosad is rapidly broken down by microbes. After it is applied, spinosad is not likely to become airborne.

Spinosad is practically non-toxic to moderately toxic to fish depending on the species. It is slightly to moderately toxic to aquatic invertebrates. However, spinosad is very highly toxic to eastern oysters. Spinosad is practically non-toxic to slightly toxic to birds, based on studies with bobwhite quail and mallard ducks. It is moderately toxic to earthworms. Spinosad is very highly toxic to bees. However, evidence suggests that spinosad has little or no effect on honey bees and other beneficial insects after sprays have dried.

Resources:

Field Trials:


Natular™ G30:

Natular G30

Pesticide Labels:

Safety Data Sheets:

Organic Certification Certificates:

Websites:


Spinosyn A:

Spinosyn A

Spinosyn D:
Spinosyn D

Molecular Formula:

  • Spinosyn A: C41H65NO10
  • Spinosyn D: C42H67NO10

Resources: