Pyriproxyfen is one of the strongest insect growth regulators, and a very small amount is enough to stop mosquito and fly larvae from developing. It does not kill the adult insect, but it cuts off the next generation at the root. That is why it is used in breeding sites: standing water, drain openings and places where waste collects.
This article explains what pyriproxyfen is, how it works, where to use it for mosquitoes and flies, and how to combine it with the rest of the plan.
- Group: insect growth regulators, juvenile hormone mimics (IRAC group 7C).
- Targets: larvae and pupae of mosquitoes and flies.
- Result: the insect does not complete its development and does not emerge as a breeding adult.
- Common form: emulsifiable concentrate (EC) diluted with water.
How does pyriproxyfen work?
Like other juvenile hormone mimics, pyriproxyfen disrupts the signals that control the change from larva to pupa to adult. Exposed larvae fail to make the change, and pupae die before the insect emerges. Even if some insects do emerge, they may not be able to reproduce normally.
So the result shows over time, not on the same day.
Where to use it
For mosquitoes
- Standing water you cannot drain.
- Drain openings and inspection chambers.
- Non-drinking water tanks and basins.
For flies
- Manure collection points in animal sheds.
- Around bins and damp places with organic waste.
- Kitchen and slaughterhouse drains according to the label.
How to use it
1. Read the label
The product is a concentrate, and the label sets the dilution for each site: standing water, surfaces or waste. The required amount is small, so following the label matters.
2. Focus on the breeding source
Pyriproxyfen does nothing if you spray it on walls for flying insects. It belongs where the larvae live.
3. Repeat on schedule
How long it lasts depends on the site and how often the water or waste is renewed. Retreat according to the label.
How to combine it with the rest of the plan
Pyriproxyfen cuts off future generations, but the adult insects already present need another treatment:
- For adult flies: baits or suitable spraying.
- For adult mosquitoes: spraying or fogging depending on the place.
- For the source: cleaning manure and waste and draining standing water.
Because it belongs to a different group from insecticides that kill adults, it is useful in programmes that delay resistance.
Pyriproxyfen, S-methoprene or Bti?
- Pyriproxyfen: a strong growth regulator at small doses, used for mosquitoes and flies.
- S-methoprene: a growth regulator in easy tablets for tanks and basins, for mosquitoes.
- Bti bacteria: kill mosquito larvae within one to two days.
The choice depends on the site, the type of insect and how easy it is to apply.
Safety
- Do not use it in drinking water.
- Wear gloves and goggles when preparing the solution.
- Keep it away from ponds and natural water bodies unless the label allows it.
- Store the pack sealed away from food and children.
Products from Orkida
- Pyrosuper 10 EC, 1 litre: a concentrate with pyriproxyfen 10% for controlling mosquito and fly larvae in breeding sites.
Frequently asked questions
Does pyriproxyfen kill the flies I can see?
No. It works on larvae and pupae. The flies already present need a bait or spray, and pyriproxyfen prevents future generations.
When will I see the result?
The result shows over time, as fewer insects emerge from breeding sites over the following weeks.
Should I mix it with another insecticide?
Do not mix products yourself unless the label says so. Use each product where it belongs.
Does it work on cockroaches?
Pyriproxyfen is used in some cockroach products as a growth regulator, but this product is intended for mosquito and fly larvae according to its label.