Rock 10 EC (Bifenthrin 10%) Insecticide: Complete Guide
The Broad-Spectrum Solution for Cotton Bollworms and Sugarcane Termites.
Rock 10 EC by Krishi Rasayan is a powerful Type I Pyrethroid insecticide. It provides a dual-action defense (Contact + Stomach) against hard-to-kill pests. Whether you are battling the Cotton Bollworm complex or subterranean termites in Sugarcane, Rock 10 EC delivers rapid knockdown and long-lasting soil persistence.
Category: Insecticide | Chemical Group: Synthetic Pyrethroid
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Rapid Knockdown Action: Paralyzes pests like Bollworms and Whiteflies within minutes of contact, stopping crop damage immediately.
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Superior Termite Barrier: Binds tightly to soil particles, creating a protective shield for Sugarcane setts that lasts 60 to 75 days.
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Low Solubility & Rainfastness: Because it is lipophilic (fat-loving), it sticks to leaves and soil, resisting wash-off from rain or irrigation.
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Dual-Action Power: Effective against both chewing pests (caterpillars) and sucking pests (hoppers/whiteflies) simultaneously.
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Crop Yield Security: Prevents "Dead Heart" in Rice and lint destruction in Cotton, ensuring a high-quality harvest.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Rock 10 EC |
| Technical Name | Bifenthrin 10% EC |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 3A (Pyrethroids) |
| Chemical Group | Type I Synthetic Pyrethroid |
| Formulation | Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) |
| Toxicity Label | Yellow Triangle (Highly Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Rock 10 EC acts as a nerve poison. It disrupts the electrical balance within the insect's nervous system.
- Contact & Ingestion: The chemical enters the pest through the cuticle (skin) or when they feed on treated plants.
- Sodium Channel Modulation: Bifenthrin binds to the sodium channels in nerve cells and prevents them from closing.
- Nervous System Failure: This causes repetitive nerve firing (tremors), leading to exhaustion, paralysis, and death.
Note: Rock 10 EC is a Type I Pyrethroid, causing rapid tremors (knockdown) rather than the slower death associated with some Type II pyrethroids.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Bollworm Complex (American & Spotted), Whitefly |
| Rice (Paddy) | Stem Borer, Leaf Folder, Green Leaf Hopper |
| Sugarcane | Subterranean Termites |
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 | 320 ml | 200 L | 1.6 ml | 14-15 |
| Rice (Paddy) | 200 ml | 200 L | 1.0 ml | 15 |
| Sugarcane | 400 ml | 200 L | 2.0 ml | ~300 (Harvest) |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply at the Economic Threshold Level (ETL)—when you first see larvae or egg hatching. For Sugarcane, apply as a soil drench over the setts at planting.
- Mixing: Do NOT mix with alkaline products like Bordeaux mixture or Lime Sulphur, as this neutralizes the poison.
- Coverage: Ensure thorough coverage of the canopy. For Whitefly control, ensure the spray reaches the undersides of leaves.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use. If facial skin tingles (paresthesia), apply Vitamin E oil or corn oil; do not use hot water.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Rock 10 EC effective for termites in buildings?
Yes. Bifenthrin is the industry standard for termite barriers because it does not dissolve in water and binds to soil, preventing termites from crossing the treated zone.
2. What should I do if I feel a burning sensation on my face after spraying?
This is a temporary effect called "Paresthesia." It is not a chemical burn. Apply Vitamin E oil, corn oil, or anesthetic cream. It typically resolves within 24 hours.
3. Can I mix Rock 10 EC with fungicides?
Yes, it is generally compatible with fungicides like Mancozeb, Propiconazole, and Sulphur WP for treating pests and diseases simultaneously.
4. Is there an antidote for accidental poisoning?
No, there is no specific antidote. Treatment is symptomatic. Doctors may administer Benzodiazepines (e.g., Diazepam) if seizures occur. Do NOT use Atropine unless organophosphate poisoning is also confirmed.
5. Is this product safe for fish?
No. Bifenthrin is extremely toxic to aquatic life with an $LC_{50}$ of 0.00015 mg/L for Rainbow Trout. Avoid spraying near ponds, lakes, or aquaculture setups.
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.
