Phosmet (Synonyms: Phthalophos)

Phosmet is an organophosphate insecticide and acaricide.^1,2,3 It reduces apple damage by a large variety of insects, including apple maggots, codling moths, and obliquebanded leafrollers when used as either a border or cover spray at a concentration of 1.9 kg AI/hectare.² Phosmet is effective in controlling S. scabiei in pigs when applied as a 20% pour-on solution.³ It is toxic to rats via oral administration (LC₅₀ = 230 mg/kg).⁴ Formulations containing phosmet have been used in the control of insects and mites in agriculture.

1.Abdollahi, M., and Karami-Mohajeri, S.A comprehensive review on experimental and clinical findings in intermediate syndrome caused by organophosphate poisoningToxicol. Appl. Pharmacol.258(3)309-314(2012) 2.Trimble, R.M., and Vickers, P.M.Evaluation of border sprays for managing the codling moth (Tortricidae: Lepidoptera) and the apple maggot (Tephritidae: Diptera) in Ontario apple orchardsJ. Econ. Entomol.93(3)777-787(2000) 3.Hewett, G.R.Phosmet for the systemic control of pig mange in growing pigsVet. Parasitol.18(3)265-268(1985) 4.Authority, E.F.S.Conclusion on the peer review of the pesticide risk assessment of the active substance phosmetEFSA J.9(5)2162(2011)