What are organophosphate pesticides?

Organophosphates are a group of human-made chemicals that poison insects and mammals. Organophosphate insecticides (such as diazinon) are one type of pesticide that works by damaging an enzyme in the body called acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme is critical for controlling nerve signals in the body.

What is phorate pesticide?

Phorate is an organophosphorus insecticide and acaricide used to control a wide variety of sucking and chewing insects, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, some nematodes, and rootworms. Phorate has been shown to be responsible for a large number of bird kills and it is extremely toxic to mammals.

What is the harmfulness of insecticide?

Because insecticides are poisonous compounds, they may adversely affect other organisms besides harmful insects. The accumulation of some insecticides in the environment can in fact pose a serious threat to both wildlife and humans.

What is organophosphate pesticides found in?

Organophosphate pesticides are found in Some flea and tick collars, shampoos, sprays, and powders for dogs and cats. Some garden pest control products and no-pest strips. Some fruits and vegetables. Small amounts of organophosphate pesticides found in these foods come from agricultural pesticide use.

How is phorate made?

It is generally prepared by combining O,O-dimethyl phosphorodithioate with diethyl maleate. It is soluble in most organic solvents except paraffin hydrocarbons and is practically insoluble in water. Malathion is readily decomposed by alkalies.

Is phorate soluble?

At normal conditions, it is a pale yellow mobile liquid poorly soluble in water but readily soluble in organic solvents. It is relatively stable and hydrolyses only at very acidic or basic conditions.

What is the meaning of pesticide?

Definition of pesticide : an agent used to destroy pests : a chemical that is used to kill animals or insects that damage plants or crops : a substance used to destroy pests (as insects or weeds) : an agent used to destroy pests

When is a product likely to be a pesticide?

A product is likely to be a pesticide if the labeling or advertising: Makes a claim to prevent, kill, destroy, mitigate, remove, repel or any other similar action against any pest. Indirectly states or implies an action against a pest. Draws a comparison to a pesticide.

What is meant by pest control?

Any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest. Any substance or mixture of substances intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant.

Are insecticides considered pesticides in California?

refers to not only insecticides but many other kinds of chemicals. Under state and federal law, a pesticide is any substance intended to control, destroy, repel, or attract a pest. California also regulates adjuvants as pesticides. This class of chemicals is exempt from federal licensing but must be registered in California.