Question

Which of the following is systemic insecticide?

• A. Methamidophos
• B. Imidacloprid
• C. Cypermethrin
• D. None

Hint:

Neonicotinoids (such as Imidacloprid, Thiamethoxam, and Acetamiprid) are highly systemic insecticides commonly used to control sap-sucking agricultural pests.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Insecticides are classified by their mode of entry into the target pest.
Systemic insecticides are absorbed by the plant tissues (via roots, stems, or leaves) and translocated through the vascular system (primarily the xylem) to other parts of the plant.
Insects that feed on the sap of these treated plants ingest the toxin and are killed.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the listed insecticides:
- Cypermethrin: A synthetic pyrethroid insecticide. It acts primarily as a contact and stomach poison. It is not absorbed or translocated within plant tissues and remains on the plant surface.
- Methamidophos: An organophosphate insecticide with broad-spectrum contact and systemic action, but it is highly toxic and restricted.
- Imidacloprid: A widely used neonicotinoid insecticide. It acts as an agonist on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the insect central nervous system.
Imidacloprid is highly water-soluble and exhibits excellent systemic properties.
When applied as a soil drench, seed treatment, or foliar spray, it is rapidly absorbed by the plant roots or leaves and translocated throughout the plant canopy.
This makes it highly effective against sucking pests, such as aphids, whiteflies, thrips, and jassids, which feed on plant sap.
Therefore, Imidacloprid is a classic example of a systemic insecticide.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Imidacloprid is the systemic insecticide among the options.