Syngenta Cigna Insecticide (Lufenuron 5.4% EC)
The Specialist Solution for Long-Lasting Caterpillar & Borer Control
Syngenta Cigna is a specialized Insect Growth Regulator (IGR) designed to break the lifecycle of tough pests. Unlike traditional sprays that only kill adult insects, Cigna targets the larval stage, stopping caterpillars from molting and growing. It provides powerful, long-duration protection for Cotton, Pulses (Red Gram), and Vegetables, acting as a crucial tool for farmers battling resistance in pests like the American Bollworm and Diamondback Moth.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Long-Lasting Protection: Provides residual control for up to 21 days, reducing the need for frequent re-spraying.
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Resistance Breaker: Works differently than common poisons, effectively killing pests that have become resistant to other chemicals.
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Stops Future Generations: Sterilizes adult moths and kills eggs (transovarial effect), preventing population explosions.
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Excellent Rainfastness: Absorbs into the leaf quickly, ensuring effectiveness even if it rains a few hours after spraying (perfect for Kharif season).
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IPM Friendly: Safe for beneficial insects like honeybees and ladybird beetles, supporting a healthy ecosystem.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Cigna (Syngenta) |
| Technical Name | Lufenuron 5.4% EC |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 15 (Benzoylureas) |
| Chemical Group | Insect Growth Regulator (IGR) |
| Formulation | Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue Label (Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
[Image of insect molting process diagram]
Cigna acts as a Chitin Synthesis Inhibitor. Insects need to shed their old skin (molt) to grow larger. Cigna prevents the formation of new skin (chitin) during this process.
- Ingestion: The larva eats the leaf treated with Cigna.
- Inhibition: The chemical enters the gut and stops the production of chitin, the building block of their skin.
- Elimination: When the larva tries to molt, its new skin is too weak. It cannot shed the old skin, leading to death. (Note: This process takes a few days, so immediate "knockdown" is not seen).
Additionally, if female moths touch the chemical, their eggs may fail to hatch, further stopping the pest cycle.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | American Bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) |
| Pigeon Pea (Red Gram) | Pod Borer, Pod Fly |
| Cabbage & Cauliflower | Diamondback Moth (DBM) |
| Chilli | Fruit Borers |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | 240 ml | 200 - 300 L | 1.5 - 2.0 ml | 48 Days |
| Pigeon Pea | 240 ml | 200 - 400 L | 1.5 - 2.0 ml | 65 Days |
| Cabbage | 240 ml | 200 L | 1.5 - 2.0 ml | 14 Days |
| Cauliflower / Chilli | 240 ml | 200 L | 1.5 - 2.0 ml | 5 Days |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting to ensure food safety.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Start spraying at the "first appearance" of eggs or tiny larvae. Do not wait for caterpillars to become fully grown.
- Mixing: Cigna is compatible with most fungicides and micronutrients (always do a small glass jar test first).
- Coverage: Ensure high water volume (200-400L/acre). Spray thoroughly to cover the undersides of leaves where pests hide.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is "Cigna" the same as "Signa"?
No. The authentic Syngenta product is spelled "Cigna." Be careful of phonetically similar brands or generics like "Signa" which may be unrelated herbicides or different chemicals.
2. Does Cigna kill pests instantly?
No. Cigna is an IGR (Insect Growth Regulator). It acts slowly by stopping the larvae from molting. You will see maximum results in 3-5 days as larvae fail to grow and die.
3. What happens if it rains after spraying?
Cigna is rainfast. Once the spray has dried on the leaf (which happens quickly due to its formulation), it will not wash off easily, making it great for the monsoon season.
4. Can I use Cigna with biological pest control?
Yes. Cigna is safe for beneficial insects and can be used alongside entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) for a powerful Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy.
5. Why is the waiting period (PHI) so long for Cotton?
The 48-day PHI for Cotton is a safety precaution to ensure no chemical residues remain in the cotton seed oil or cake. Avoid using Cigna very late in the season.
Safety & Disclaimer
Always read and follow the instructions on the official product label. The information provided here is for guidance only. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) during application. Note: This product is toxic to fish; do not apply near water bodies or aquaculture ponds.
