Carbosulfan Insecticide: Uses, Mechanism, Toxicity and Ban

Learn about carbosulfan insecticide, its uses, AChE inhibition mechanism, carbofuran formation, human health risks, environmental impacts and proposed ban in India.

Table of Contents

Context

The Agriculture Ministry has proposed a complete ban on carbosulfan, citing risks to human health and the environment, based on expert recommendations under the Insecticides Act, 1968.

About Carbosulfan

Nature: Broad-spectrum carbamate insecticide, acaricide and nematicide with systemic and contact action.
Uses: Used against pests in paddy, cotton, fruits, vegetables, sugarcane and groundnut.
Formulations: Available mainly as emulsifiable concentrates (ECs) and granules.

Working Mechanism

AChE Inhibition: Carbosulfan inhibits acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme needed to regulate nerve signals.
Neurotoxicity: AChE inhibition causes acetylcholine accumulation, resulting in continuous nerve stimulation, paralysis and death of target pests.
Systemic Action: It can be absorbed by plant roots and leaves and transported within the plant.

Why Is Carbosulfan Being Banned?

Carbofuran Formation: Carbosulfan can break down into carbofuran, a highly toxic metabolite, raising concerns over its overall toxicity.
Human Health: Exposure through inhalation, skin contact or contaminated food can cause serious neurological effects.
Non-Target Species: It is highly toxic to birds, bees and other beneficial organisms, creating risks to agricultural biodiversity.
Aquatic Pollution: Runoff from agricultural fields can contaminate surface water and groundwater and harm fish and aquatic invertebrates.