Neonicotinoid Insecticide Alternatives

Commonly referred to as “neonics,” neonicotinoids are one of the most used insecticides worldwide for controlling insect pests in fruit, vegetable and field crops. Neonics are chemically similar to nicotine and work by binding to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the central nervous system of insects, causing overstimulation of their nerve cells. They are highly water-soluble, necessitating only small amounts, which dissolve when introduced to water and systemically penetrate the roots of developing plants.

Common neonicotinoids used in pesticide products

• Acetamiprid
• Clothianidin
• Dinotefuran
• Imidacloprid
• Nitenpyram
• Thiacloprid
• Thiamethoxam

New York’s farmers and growers are incredible stewards of their land and have proactively adopted integrated pest management practices that solve pest problems while minimizing risks to themselves and the environment.  While neonicotinoids have been a longtime staple in sound integrated pest management plans, evolving research has indicated that their use may contribute to the dwindling of several federally listed endangered species and numbers of native and managed pollinators. As New York looks to safeguard the nearly $389 million of pollination services provided by bees and other beneficial insects annually, considering alternative and sustainable strategies for controlling pests traditionally treated with neonicotinoids has become increasingly important.

The New York State Integrated Pest Management Program at Cornell University recognizes that farmers, growers and producers need trusted strategies and resources for managing pests. In partnership with Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, NYSIPM has undertaken eight research projects which take into consideration a crop and pest-based strategy that focuses on long-term prevention through monitoring, digital forecasting, biological control, habitat manipulation, novel and softer chemical alternatives and more.