[This article has been tagged for development.]

Overview

Carbophenothion is an organophospate insecticide and an [acaricide] classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a [Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP)] (EXTOXNET PIP).

Chemical Description

Pure carbophenthion is a yellow-brown liquid with a "mild mercaptan-like odor" and is stable, but soluble in most industrial solvents (EXTOXNET PIP).

Uses and Benefits

It is applied on citrus fruits and cotton to control aphids and spider mites and is often combined with [petroleum] to neutralize numerous other pests as well (EXTOXNET).

Health Effects

From EXTOXNET PIP:
"Carbophenothion affects the nervous system by inhibiting chlolinesterase. Symptoms of poisoning include headache, blurred vision, weakness, nausea, discomfort in the chest, abdominal cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, sweating and pinpoint pupils (12, 16). It is highly toxic when eaten and nearly as toxic when absorbed through the skin."

There is no evidence of its chronic health effects.

Environmental Effects

Carbophenthion is highly toxic to birds, aquatic organisms, bees, and even certain citrus fruits including grapefruits (EXTOXNET PIP).

It is not terribly persistent in the environment, leaving residues in soil for up to six months after application.

Regulation

The EPA has classified carbophenothion as Category I - highly toxic. Products containing the active ingredient bear the SIGNAL WORD: DANGER (EXTOXNET PIP).

External Links

• EXTOXNET Pesticide Information Profile on Carbophenthion
  
  
• International Programme on Chemical Safety (INCHEM) on Carbophenthion
  
  

References