Fotis Insecticide (Chlorpyrifos 20% EC) – Expert Termite & Borer Control
A heavy-hitting, broad-spectrum insecticide by Nichino India featuring Japanese technology for superior purity and "Triple Action" power.
Fotis (Chlorpyrifos 20% EC) is a trusted solution for farmers battling tough chewing and sucking pests. Manufactured by Nichino India (a subsidiary of Nihon Nohyaku, Japan), Fotis offers high-quality formulation stability. It is particularly famous for its ability to reach hidden pests like stem borers inside plants and termites in the soil, thanks to its strong vapor action.
Best For: Rice (Paddy), Cotton, Sugarcane, Vegetables, and Pre/Post-Construction Termite Control.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Instant Knockdown: Rapidly paralyzes pests immediately upon contact, preventing further crop damage.
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Triple Action Defense: Works in three ways—Contact, Stomach (ingestion), and Vapor (fumigation)—to ensure no pest survives.
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Expert Termite Control: Creates a long-lasting chemical barrier in the soil, making it the industry standard for anti-termite treatment.
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Reaches Hidden Pests: Its unique fumigant (vapor) quality penetrates stems and leaf folds to kill hidden pests like Stem Borers.
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Japanese Quality Assurance: Manufactured with backward integration by Nichino, ensuring high purity and a stable emulsion in the tank.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Fotis |
| Technical Name | Chlorpyrifos 20% EC |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 1B (Organophosphate) |
| Chemical Group | Phosphorothioates |
| Formulation | Emulsifiable Concentrate (Liquid) |
| Toxicity Label | Yellow / Blue (Highly Toxic - Handle with Care) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Fotis works by targeting the nervous system of the insect. It is an Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor.
- System Shutdown: It binds to the AChE enzyme, preventing the breakdown of neurotransmitters.
- Over-Excitation: This causes continuous firing of nerve impulses, leading to tremors and paralysis.
- Total Elimination: The pest dies quickly due to respiratory failure and energy exhaustion.
Because Fotis has high vapor pressure, it also releases toxic fumes that enter the insect's breathing pores (spiracles), killing pests hiding inside stems or soil where sprays can't reach.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Paddy (Rice) | Stem Borer, Leaf Folder, Gall Midge, Hispa |
| Cotton | Bollworms (Spotted/Pink), Aphids, Whitefly, Cutworm |
| Sugarcane | Early Shoot Borer, Black Bug, Termites (Setts), Pyrilla |
| Vegetables (Brinjal/Cabbage) | Shoot & Fruit Borer, Diamondback Moth (DBM) |
| Soil / Construction | 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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paddy (Rice) | 500 - 1250 ml | 200 - 300 L | 2.5 - 3.0 ml | 14-30 |
| Cotton | 500 - 1200 ml | 200 - 300 L | 2.0 - 2.5 ml | 14-30 |
| Brinjal | 400 - 800 ml | 200 L | 2.0 - 4.0 ml | 7-10 |
| Sugarcane | 600 - 1500 ml | 300 - 400 L | 3.0 - 4.0 ml | 30 |
*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 first sign of pest infestation or based on ETL (Economic Threshold Level). For borers, spray before larvae enter the stem.
- Mixing: Premix the required quantity of Fotis in a small amount of water to form a white emulsion, then add it to the main tank. Avoid alkaline water.
- Coverage: Use sufficient water volume (minimum 200 Litres/Acre) to ensure thorough coating of the foliage.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use. Toxic to bees; do not spray during active bee foraging hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
[Image of termite mound and worker termites]
1. Is Fotis effective against termites?
Yes, it is highly effective. It is widely used for soil drenching in agriculture and for treating building foundations to create a chemical barrier against termites.
2. Can I use Fotis on Fruit Crops like Citrus or Ber?
No. As of October 2023, the use of Chlorpyrifos is legally banned in India on Ber, Citrus, and Tobacco crops. Please strictly adhere to this regulation.
3. Can I mix Fotis with other pesticides?
Yes, Fotis is generally compatible with common fungicides like Mancozeb or insecticides like Cypermethrin. Do not mix with highly alkaline products (like Bordeaux mixture).
4. What is the antidote for accidental poisoning?
The specific antidote is Atropine Sulfate, administered under medical supervision. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting immediately; seek medical help instantly.
5. Why does the liquid turn white when mixed with water?
Fotis is an EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate). It contains oil-based solvents that form a milky white emulsion when mixed with water, ensuring even spreading on the plant.
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: Chlorpyrifos is toxic to fish and aquatic bodies; avoid use near water sources.

