Neonicotinoid
Neonicotinoid
Neonicotinoid (pronunciation: /ˌniːoʊˈnɪkəˌtɔɪd/) is a class of neuro-active insecticides chemically similar to nicotine.
Etymology
The term "Neonicotinoid" is derived from the words "neonic" meaning new, and "nicotinoid" meaning nicotine-like. It refers to the chemical structure of these insecticides which is similar to that of nicotine.
Description
Neonicotinoids are a type of insecticide that affects the nervous system of insects, leading to paralysis and death. They are commonly used in agriculture and gardening due to their effectiveness against a wide range of pests. Neonicotinoids are systemic, meaning they are absorbed by the plant and distributed throughout its tissues, making all parts of the plant potentially toxic to insects.
Related Terms
- Insecticide: A substance used for killing insects.
- Nicotine: A stimulant drug found in tobacco which is often used as a pesticide.
- Systemic Insecticide: A type of insecticide that is absorbed by the plant and distributed throughout its tissues.
- Neuro-active: Substances that interact with nerve cells and affect the nervous system.
Health Effects
Exposure to neonicotinoids can have harmful effects on non-target organisms, including humans. They have been linked to developmental neurotoxicity, impacts on immune function, and are suspected to have an impact on the declining bee population.
Environmental Impact
Neonicotinoids are highly persistent in the environment, meaning they can accumulate over time. This persistence, combined with their widespread use, has led to concerns about their impact on non-target organisms and ecosystems.
Regulation
Due to their potential harmful effects, the use of neonicotinoids is regulated in many countries. In the European Union, for example, three neonicotinoids were banned for outdoor use in 2018.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neonicotinoid
- Wikipedia's article - Neonicotinoid
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