Katana Insecticide (Flubendiamide 20% WG) by Nichino
The Japanese "Expert Solution" for Stem Borer, Leaf Folder, and Bollworm Control.
Katana is a high-performance, broad-spectrum insecticide featuring Japanese Technology. It is specifically designed to combat tough caterpillars and larvae in Rice, Cotton, and Vegetable crops. Unlike older sprays, Katana stops pests from feeding within minutes of contact, ensuring your crop stays green, healthy, and damage-free.
Best For: Farmers seeking long-duration protection against resistant pests like the Diamondback Moth and Helicoverpa.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Stops Feeding Instantly:
The moment the larva ingests Katana, its muscles paralyze. It stops chewing immediately, preventing any further crop loss. -
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Controls Resistant Pests:
Highly effective against pests that have developed resistance to older chemicals like pyrethroids or organophosphates. -
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Long-Lasting Protection:
Provides residual control for 15 to 20 days, reducing the labor and cost of frequent re-spraying. -
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Excellent Rainfastness:
The WG formulation sticks to the leaf. It remains effective even if it rains just 2-3 hours after application. -
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Safe for Beneficials (IPM Friendly):
Harmful to caterpillars but safe for friends of the farmer like spiders, ladybird beetles, and bees (when used correctly).
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Katana |
| Technical Name | Flubendiamide 20% WG |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 28 (Ryanodine Receptor Modulator) |
| Chemical Group | Phthalic Acid Diamide |
| Formulation | WG (Water Dispersible Granules) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue/Green Triangle (Caution) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Katana works via a unique "Stomach Action" mechanism that targets the muscular system of the insect.
- Ingestion: The larva eats a treated leaf or stem.
- Calcium Flood: The active ingredient binds to Ryanodine Receptors, forcing a massive release of calcium in the insect's muscle cells.
- Paralysis & Death: The muscles contract uncontrollably and then become paralyzed. The insect stops feeding immediately and starves to death within 24-72 hours.
Note: Because it works on muscles, not nerves, it is safe for mammals (humans/livestock).
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Paddy (Rice) | Leaf Folder, Yellow Stem Borer |
| Cotton | American Bollworm, Spotted Bollworm, Tobacco Caterpillar |
| Vegetables (Tomato, Cabbage, Chilli) | Fruit Borer, Diamondback Moth (DBM), Pod Borer |
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 (g / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (g / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paddy (Rice) | 70 g | 150 - 200 L | 0.35 - 0.5 g | 40 |
| Cotton | 100 g | 200 L | 0.5 g | 25 |
| Tomato / Cabbage | 40 - 100 g | 200 L | 0.2 - 0.5 g | 5 - 7 |
*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 egg-hatching stage or when you see the first signs of larval activity (e.g., folded leaves in rice).
- Mixing: Dissolve the required granules in a small mug of water first to create a solution, then add it to the main spray tank.
- Coverage: Ensure thorough coverage of the foliage. For Rice, direct the nozzle towards the base of the plant for stem borers.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Katana kill the pests immediately?
It stops them from feeding instantly (within minutes). The pest may stay alive for 1-2 days, but it cannot damage your crop during that time.
2. Is Katana safe for Honey Bees?
Yes, Katana is relatively safe for pollinators compared to older chemicals. However, avoid direct spraying when bees are actively foraging.
3. Can I mix Katana with fungicides?
Yes, it is compatible with common fungicides like Hexaconazole or Validamycin for simultaneous disease control in Paddy.
4. What is the formulation type?
It is a 20% WG (Water Dispersible Granule). It looks like small grains but dissolves easily in water without dust.
5. Should I use it for sucking pests?
No. Katana is specialized for chewing pests (Caterpillars/Borers). For sucking pests (BPH/Aphids), mix with a specific sucking pesticide.
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. Toxic to aquatic life; do not use near fish ponds.

