Tatafen Insecticide (Fenvalerate 20% EC) by Rallis India
Powerful "Knockdown" Action Against Bollworms and Borers
Tatafen is a trusted, broad-spectrum insecticide brought to you by Rallis India Ltd. (A Tata Enterprise). It is designed to provide immediate relief from tough chewing pests like bollworms and shoot borers. As a Type II synthetic pyrethroid, Tatafen delivers a powerful "knockdown" effect, stopping pests instantly upon contact. It is highly effective for cotton and vegetable crops, offering a cost-efficient solution for protecting your yield.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Rapid Knockdown Action: Instantly paralyzes pests upon contact, stopping crop damage immediately.
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Broad-Spectrum Control: Effectively targets both chewing larvae (Bollworms) and sucking pests (Jassids, Aphids).
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Long-Lasting Protection: The photostable formula resists sunlight, remaining active on the plant surface for longer.
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Excellent Leaf Penetration: The EC formulation penetrates the waxy layers of leaves and insects for maximum impact.
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Versatile Usage: Approved for use on major fiber crops like Cotton and vegetables like Brinjal and Cauliflower.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Tatafen |
| Technical Name | Fenvalerate 20% EC |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 3A (Sodium Channel Modulator) |
| Chemical Group | Synthetic Pyrethroid (Type II) |
| Formulation | Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) |
| Toxicity Label | Yellow Triangle (Highly Toxic) or Blue Triangle (Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Tatafen acts as a broad-spectrum neurotoxin. It disrupts the insect's nervous system by targeting the voltage-gated sodium channels.
[Image of insect nervous system sodium channel blockage]- Double Entry: It enters the pest via Contact (touching treated leaves) and Stomach action (eating treated foliage).
- Nervous Overload: Once inside, it keeps the insect's nerve channels open, causing repetitive nerve impulses.
- Immediate Paralysis: This leads to extreme agitation, followed rapidly by paralysis and death. The pest stops feeding instantly.
Note: This product is non-systemic, so good coverage of the plant surface is essential.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Bollworm Complex (American, Spotted, Pink), Jassids, Thrips |
| Cauliflower | Diamondback Moth (DBM), Aphids |
| Brinjal & Okra | Shoot & Fruit Borer, Jassids, Aphids |
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 | 300 – 500 ml | 200 – 300 L | 2.0 – 2.5 ml | 7 – 15 Days |
| Cauliflower | 300 – 375 ml | 200 L | 1.5 – 2.0 ml | 7 Days |
| Brinjal & Okra | 300 – 500 ml | 200 L | 2.0 – 2.5 ml | 7 Days |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Start spraying when pest damage reaches the Economic Threshold Level (e.g., 5% damage). Evening spraying is best to avoid heat and protect bees.
- Mixing: Ensure adequate water volume (approx. 200 liters per acre) to get thorough coverage, as this is a contact insecticide.
- Coverage: Focus on covering the undersides of leaves and developing fruits/bolls where larvae hide.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use. Avoid skin contact to prevent itching (paresthesia).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Tatafen control sucking pests?
Yes, while it is primarily for caterpillars (Lepidoptera), it also suppresses sucking pests like Jassids and Aphids effectively.
2. Is this product safe for fish?
No. Fenvalerate is highly toxic to fish and aquatic life. Do not use near ponds, rivers, or aquaculture systems.
3. Why does my skin itch after spraying?
This is a common side effect of pyrethroids called "paresthesia." It is temporary. Wash with soap and water, and apply Vitamin E oil or coconut oil to soothe the skin. Always wear PPE.
4. Can I mix Tatafen with other products?
Tatafen is often used in rotation with other chemistries to prevent resistance, but always check physical compatibility (jar test) before tank mixing.
5. What is the price of Tatafen?
It is an economical choice, generally priced between ₹800–₹900 per liter, making it very affordable for small farmers.
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.

