Description
Mancozeb is a widely used active ingredient belonging to the ethylene bisdithiocarbamate class, serving as a powerful contact fungicide. Its primary function is to provide a broad-spectrum preventive shield for agricultural crops, effectively inhibiting the germination and growth of fungal spores before they penetrate plant tissues.
The mechanism of action of Mancozeb involves the disruption of multiple metabolic pathways in fungal cells. By inactivating sulfhydryl groups in enzymes and proteins, the substance effectively cripples the pathogen's ability to survive and reproduce. This multi-site mode of action is crucial for anti-resistance programs, as fungi struggle to develop immunity to such non-specific biochemical interference.
Mancozeb is extensively employed across a diverse range of crops, including potatoes, tomatoes, grapes, cereal grains, and various vegetables. It is highly effective in managing major threats like late blight, early blight, downy mildew, apple scab, and various leaf spot diseases, ensuring the health and vigor of plants throughout the growing season.
Due to its strictly contact-based nature, Mancozeb does not possess systemic properties, meaning it does not translocate within the plant vascular system. Therefore, successful application requires thorough and uniform coverage of the crop canopy. The residual protective effect typically lasts between 7 to 14 days, depending on growth rate, rainfall intensity, and the severity of the disease pressure.
Safety is a critical aspect when handling Mancozeb; operators should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid inhalation or skin contact. It is essential to strictly follow the pre-harvest interval (PHI) labels on pesticide packaging to ensure the final produce is free of harmful residues. Avoid mixing Mancozeb with highly alkaline compounds, as this can degrade the active ingredient and compromise its fungicidal efficiency.
- Broad-spectrum control of fungal pathogens.
- Excellent tool for resistance management strategies.
- Protective contact action with long-lasting residual effect.
- High compatibility with many other crop protection agents.
Status in the European Union
Not approved in the EU
- CAS number
- 8018-01-7
- Category (EU)
- FU - Fungicide
- Approved from
- 01.07.2006
- Approval until
- 04.01.2021
- ADI
- 0.023 mg/kg bw/day
- ARfD
- 0.15 mg/kg bw
- AOEL
- 0.011 mg/kg bw/day
Regulatory status data: EU Pesticides Database © European Union, CC BY 4.0. EU status is for reference only and does not replace national registration in your country.
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