Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) Explained FAQ

 What are  Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs)?

Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) are a class of chemicals that disrupt the normal growth and development of insects. They work by interfering with the insect's hormones, preventing them from reaching maturity or reproducing. IGRs are considered to be a relatively safe and environmentally friendly method of insect control, as they have little or no effect on non-target organisms such as humans, pets, and beneficial insects.

IGRs can be used in a variety of ways, including as sprays, baits, or granules. They are commonly used in agriculture, horticulture, and pest control to manage populations of insect pests such as fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and cockroaches. IGRs are also used in animal health products to control parasites such as lice and flies.

There are two main types of IGRs: juvenile hormone analogs and chitin synthesis inhibitors. Juvenile hormone analogs mimic the insect's natural juvenile hormone, which is responsible for regulating growth and development. By applying juvenile hormone analogs, insects are prevented from reaching maturity and reproducing. Chitin synthesis inhibitors, on the other hand, disrupt the formation of chitin, which is an essential component of the insect's exoskeleton. This results in a weakened exoskeleton and ultimately death.

IGRs offer several advantages over traditional insecticides, including a lower risk of developing insect resistance, a lower impact on beneficial insects, and a longer residual effect. However, they can be less effective in controlling existing insect populations and may require more frequent applications to achieve desired results.

What are the examples of IGRs?

There are several examples of IGRs, including methoprene, pyriproxyfen, diflubenzuron, and fenoxycarb.

How does an IGR insect growth regulator work?

IGRs work by disrupting the normal growth and development of insects. They interfere with the insect's hormones, preventing them from reaching maturity or reproducing. This disruption can occur at several different stages of the insect's life cycle, depending on the specific IGR being used.

What products are IGR?

IGRs are available in a variety of formulations, including sprays, baits, and granules. They are commonly used in agriculture, horticulture, pest control, and animal health products. Some common examples of IGR products include Advion® insect granules, Gentrol® IGR concentrate, and NyGuard® IGR.