Bifors Insecticide (Ethion 40% + Cypermethrin 5% EC) - Broad Spectrum Pest Control
The "Hammer and Anvil" Solution for Complex Crop Pests.
Bifors by Nichino India is a powerful "ready-mix" insecticide that combines Japanese formulation technology with a dual-action chemical strategy. It is designed specifically for crops facing simultaneous attacks from caterpillars (chewing pests) and mites/sucking pests.
Best For: Farmers struggling with resistance issues in Cotton, Chilli, and Vegetables who need immediate knockdown and long-lasting control.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Rapid Knockdown Effect: Contains Cypermethrin, which acts as a "hammer," paralyzing insects within minutes of contact.
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Dual-Action Synergy: Combines two different chemical groups (Organophosphate + Pyrethroid) to kill pests that may be resistant to single chemicals.
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Ovi-Larvicidal Power: It doesn't just kill adults; it destroys insect eggs and larvae, breaking the reproductive cycle completely.
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Mite & Borer Specialist: Unlike standard insecticides, the Ethion component specifically targets Mites (Acarina) while controlling Borers simultaneously.
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Japanese Quality Assurance: Manufactured with backward integration by Nichino, ensuring high purity solvents that reduce the risk of crop burn.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Bifors |
| Technical Name | Ethion 40% + Cypermethrin 5% EC |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 1B (Ethion) + Group 3A (Cypermethrin) |
| Chemical Group | Organophosphate + Synthetic Pyrethroid |
| Formulation | Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) |
| Toxicity Label | Yellow/Blue (Highly to Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Bifors uses a Potentiated Synergy strategy. This means the two chemicals work together to create an effect stronger than if they were used alone.
- The Anvil (Ethion): A synaptic poison that inhibits the enzyme Acetylcholinesterase (AChE). This causes the pest's nerves to fire uncontrollably, leading to tremors and death.
- The Hammer (Cypermethrin): An axonic poison that targets Sodium Channels in the nerve. It keeps these channels open, causing instant paralysis (knockdown) upon contact.
- Complete Coverage: While Cypermethrin hits mobile pests (caterpillars), Ethion targets immobile pests (Mites) and those hiding in squares.
This dual attack makes it very difficult for pests to develop resistance.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | American Bollworm, Pink Bollworm, Spotted Bollworm, Whiteflies, Thrips |
| Chilli | Yellow Mites, Thrips (Leaf Curl Complex), Fruit Borers |
| Vegetables (Brinjal/Tomato) | Shoot & Fruit Borer, Whiteflies, Mites |
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 | 400 - 500 ml | 200 - 500 L | 2 - 2.5 ml | 15 Days |
| Chilli | 400 - 600 ml | 300 - 500 L | 1.5 - 2 ml | 10 - 15 Days |
| Brinjal/Veg | 400 ml | 200 L | 2 ml | 7 - 10 Days |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting to ensure residue safety.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply when you see the first signs of pest incidence (Economic Threshold Level). For Bollworms, spray when you see 5% damaged squares.
- Mixing: Do NOT mix with alkaline products (like Bordeaux mixture). If your water pH is high (>7.5), add an acidifier to the tank first to prevent the Ethion from degrading.
- Coverage: Use sufficient water volume (min 200L/acre). This is a contact poison; it must hit the pest or the leaf surface where they feed.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). This product is toxic. Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Bifors control Mites (Murdia/Leaf Curl) in Chilli?
Yes. The Ethion component is a specialized Acaricide (Mite killer). It effectively controls Yellow Mites and Red Spider Mites that pure pyrethroids miss.
2. Is it safe to mix Bifors with Fungicides?
Generally, yes. It is compatible with neutral fungicides like Mancozeb, Hexaconazole, or Propiconazole. Do not mix with alkaline copper compounds.
3. Does it kill eggs (Ovicidal action)?
Yes. Bifors has ovicidal properties, meaning it kills the eggs of moths and butterflies, preventing the next generation of caterpillars from hatching.
4. Can I use this during flowering?
Use with extreme caution. Cypermethrin and Ethion are toxic to honeybees. If spraying is necessary, apply in the late evening when bees are not foraging to protect pollinators.
5. What is the dosage for a 15-litre spray pump?
For a standard 15L tank, mix approximately 30ml to 40ml of Bifors. Ensure thorough mixing before spraying.
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. This product is toxic to fish and aquatic life; do not use near water bodies.
