Understanding Imidacloprid The Importance of Its CAS Number

Imidacloprid is a widely used insecticide belonging to the neonicotinoid class of chemicals. It is particularly effective in controlling pests that affect agricultural crops, ornamental plants, and structures. One of the crucial aspects of any chemical compound, especially in research and regulatory contexts, is its Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number. For imidacloprid, the CAS number is 138261-41-3. This article will delve into the significance of imidacloprid, its applications, and the relevance of its CAS number.

The Role of Imidacloprid

Imidacloprid was discovered in the 1990s and quickly gained popularity among agricultural practitioners due to its effectiveness against a variety of pests, including aphids, whiteflies, and termites. Its mode of action involves interfering with the transmission of signals in the nervous systems of insects. By binding to specific receptors (nicotinic acetylcholine receptors), it causes paralysis and eventually death in targeted pests. This makes it a powerful tool for pest management, contributing to increased agricultural yields.

One of the major advantages of imidacloprid is its systemic properties, allowing it to be absorbed by plants and distributed throughout their tissues. As a result, it not only targets pests that directly contact the plants but also those that feed on them, enhancing its efficacy. This systemic action also helps in protecting plants for an extended period, making it a preferred choice among farmers and horticulturists.

Applications of Imidacloprid

Imidacloprid is utilized globally across various agricultural sectors. It can be applied in several ways, including foliar sprays, soil treatments, and seed coatings. The versatility of its application makes it suitable for a broad spectrum of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and field crops.

In the agricultural sector, imidacloprid has proven particularly beneficial for controlling pests in cotton, corn, and rice, among others. Beyond agriculture, it is also commonly used in pest control products for veterinary and household use. For instance, it’s found in formulations for treating flea infestations in pets and termite control in residential areas.

The CAS number 138261-41-3 is a unique identifier assigned to imidacloprid by the Chemical Abstracts Service, which provides a comprehensive registry of chemical compounds. This number serves several important functions

1. Uniqueness Each chemical substance has a unique CAS number, allowing users to precisely identify the compound without ambiguity. This is especially important in scientific literature, regulatory documents, and industrial applications.

2. Searchability By utilizing the CAS number, researchers and professionals can easily search for information related to imidacloprid across various databases, including toxicological data, chemical properties, and safety guidelines.

3. Regulatory Compliance The CAS number is often required in regulatory submissions and compliance documentation. It helps ensure that all stakeholders, from manufacturers to end-users, are referring to the same chemical substance, which is critical for safety assessments and environmental regulations.

4. Facilitating Research Researchers can use the CAS number to access studies relating to imidacloprid, facilitating research on its efficacy, environmental impact, and potential health risks. This is particularly essential in the context of ongoing debates regarding the use of neonicotinoids and their effects on pollinator populations.

Conclusion

Imidacloprid, designated with the CAS number 138261-41-3, remains an invaluable asset in the arsenal against agricultural pests. Its effectiveness, coupled with its systemic properties, has made it a staple in pest management strategies worldwide. The CAS number plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and effective use of this chemical, providing clarity and facilitating communication among all stakeholders involved in its application and regulation. As we continue to seek effective pest management solutions, understanding compounds like imidacloprid and their implications will be vital in maintaining sustainable agricultural practices. As regulatory scrutiny increases, ensuring responsible use and understanding the chemical's effects on the environment will remain paramount.