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Pesticide Information Profiles

A Pesticide Information Project of Cooperative Extension Offices of Cornell University, Oregon State University, the University of Idaho, and the University of California at Davis and the Institute for Environmental Toxicology, Michigan State University. Major support and funding was provided by the USDA/Extension Service/National Agricultural Pesticide Impact Assessment Program.

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METHAMIDOPHOS


TRADE OR OTHER NAMES: Product names include Monitor, Nitofol, Tamaron, Swipe, Nuratron, Vetaron, Filitox, Patrole, Tamanox, SRA 5172, and Tam (156, 13). Methamidophos is also a breakdown product of the organophosphate insecticide acephate (Orthene) (157, 158).

REGULATORY STATUS: Methamidophos is classified by EPA as a Class I compound, and must bear the signal word "Danger-Poison" on commercial products (156). Pesticides in this toxicity class are restricted use pesticides (RUP). Tolerances for residues of methamidophos on raw agricultural products range from 0.5 ppm in or on melons to 1.0 ppm in or on broccoli and tomatoes. Check with specific state regulations for local restrictions which may apply.

INTRODUCTION: Methamidophos is a highly active, systemic, residual organophosphate insecticide/acaricide/avicide with contact and stomach action. Its mode of action in insects and mammals is by decreasing the activity of an enzyme important for nervous system function called acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme is essential in the normal transmission of nerve impulses. Methamidophos is a potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (159). It is effective against chewing and sucking insects and is used to control aphids, flea beetles, worms, whiteflies, thrips, cabbage loopers, Colorado potato beetles, potato tubeworms, armyworms, mites, leafhoppers, and many others. Crop uses include broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, grapes, celery, sugar beets, cotton, tobacco, and potatoes. It is used abroad for many vegetables, hops, corn, peaches, and other crops (138). Commercially available formulations include soluble concentrate, emulsifiable concentrate, wettable powder, granules, ultra-low volume spray and water miscible spray concentrate (158). Generally, methamidophos is not considered phytotoxic if used as directed, but defoliation has occurred when applied as foliar spray to deciduous fruit. It is compatible with many other pesticides, but do not use with alkaline materials (158). Methamidophos is slightly corrosive to mild steel and copper alloys. This compound is highly toxic to mammals, birds, and bees. Do not graze treated areas, and be sure to wear protective clothing including respirator, chemical goggles, rubber gloves, and impervious protective clothing (156, 13).

TOXICOLOGICAL EFFECTS

ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS

ENVIRONMENTAL FATE

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES AND GUIDELINES

Physical Properties:

Exposure Guidelines:

BASIC MANUFACTURER

Bayer Agricultural Products
P. O. Box 4913
Kansas City, MO 64120

REFERENCES

References for the information in this PIP can be found in Reference List Number 5


DISCLAIMER: The information in this profile does not in any way replace or supersede the information on the pesticide product label/ing or other regulatory requirements. Please refer to the pesticide product label/ing.