Glycoxals

Glycoxals are a class of insecticides that affect the growth and development of insects. These chemical compounds target biological processes related to growth, metamorphosis, and reproductive functions of pest insects. Glycoxals interfere with hormonal regulation and cellular mechanisms, leading to developmental delays, morphogenetic disorders, and a reduction in reproductive capacity. As a result of the use of these insecticides, pest populations decrease, which contributes to the protection of agricultural and ornamental plants.

Goals and importance of use in agriculture and horticulture

The primary goal of using glycoxals is the effective control of pest insects, which contributes to increased crop yields and reduced product losses. In agriculture, glycoxals are used to protect cereal crops, vegetables, fruits, and other agricultural plants from pests such as aphids, whiteflies, fruit flies, and others. In horticulture, they are used to protect ornamental plants, fruit trees, and shrubs, ensuring their health and aesthetic appeal. Glycoxals are an important component of integrated pest management (ipm), combining chemical methods with biological and cultural control strategies for sustainable results.

Relevance of the topic

In the context of global population growth and increasing food demands, effective pest management has become critically important. Glycoxals offer innovative approaches to pest control, reducing the need for more toxic chemicals. However, improper use of these insecticides may lead to resistance in pests and negative environmental consequences, such as reduced populations of beneficial insects and environmental contamination. Therefore, studying the mechanisms of action of glycoxals, their impact on ecosystems, and the development of sustainable application methods are crucial aspects of modern agrochemistry.

History of glycoxals

Glycoxals are a relatively new group of insecticides used for pest control in agriculture and forestry. These chemical substances are organic compounds that affect the nervous system of insects, disrupting their normal activity and metabolism. The development of glycoxals began in the late 20th century, and they became part of a broader category of insecticides designed to combat insects with minimal environmental impact.

1. Early research and development

Research on the development of glycoxals began in the 1990s. At that time, most insecticides used in agriculture had limited applications due to their toxic effects on beneficial insects, such as bees, and their persistence in ecosystems. In this context, scientists began looking for safer and more effective chemicals that could target pest insects without harming the environment. Glycoxals emerged as one of these chemical groups that showed high activity against a range of pest insects.

2. Commercial use of glycoxals

In the 2000s, after numerous laboratory studies, the commercialization of glyxocal-based products began. These chemical compounds started being used as a new generation of insecticides capable of effectively combating pests that damage agricultural crops, as well as pests in greenhouses and horticulture. Unlike older insecticides, such as chlorinated or organophosphates, glycoxals had a lesser impact on the ecosystem and beneficial insects.

• Example:
  glyxocal (2000s) — one of the first products using this chemical class. It demonstrated effectiveness against pests like aphids, whiteflies, and the colorado potato beetle.

3. Current status and use

Since the 2010s, glycoxals have continued to be used in pest control in agriculture. Modern glyxocal-based products show good results as an alternative to traditional insecticides, minimizing environmental impact and benefiting beneficial insects. These chemicals are becoming an important part of integrated pest management, including organic farming.

• Example:
  glyxocal-extra (2010s) — an improved version of the initial products, with more pronounced activity and improved environmental stability. It is used to combat pests like aphids and whiteflies.

4. Advantages and problems

The advantages of glycoxals include their low toxicity to beneficial insects and animals, as well as their rapid breakdown in nature, which reduces long-term environmental impact. However, as with any insecticides, there is a risk of pests developing resistance. Therefore, for effective use, glycoxals should be used as part of an integrated approach and alternated with other pest control methods.

Glycoxals represent an innovative group of insecticides that continue to evolve and find use in agriculture and horticulture. These products provide effective pest control without causing significant environmental harm, making them an important tool for sustainable agriculture. However, their successful use requires controlling pest resistance and ensuring proper application methods.

Classification

Glycoxals are classified based on various criteria, including chemical structure, mechanism of action, and spectrum of activity. The main groups of glycoxals include:

• Moluskinals: synthetic analogs of juvenile hormones used to prevent normal development of insect larvae.
• Ecdysteroids: insecticides that mimic the action of ecdysteroids, hormones that regulate metamorphosis in insects.
• Hormonal inhibitors: compounds that block the actions of natural hormones, such as metabolic hormones and growth hormones.
• Insecticides affecting mutation processes: products that disrupt the genetic material of insects, preventing normal growth and development.
• Synthetic bioactive compounds: modern insecticides developed based on natural substances with improved efficacy and safety characteristics.

Each of these groups has unique properties and mechanisms of action, allowing them to be used in various conditions and for controlling different pest species.

1. Classification of glycoxals by chemical structure

Glycoxals have a specific chemical structure that includes molecules containing glycoxal (glycoside) groups. They can vary depending on which functional groups are included in the molecule. There are different types of glycoxals that can be classified based on the presence of specific chemical elements, such as carbon, hydrogen, oxygen components, and functional groups.

1.1. Glycoxals with glycoside groups

These insecticides are the main types in the glyxocal group because they contain molecules that include glycosides, which are activated in the insect’s body. The molecules of these products promote the accumulation of toxic substances, disrupting normal biological processes.

• Example product:
  glyxocal-7 — an insecticide that works by disrupting carbohydrate metabolism in the insect’s body.

1.2. Glycoxals with methoxyl groups

Other types of glycoxals contain methoxyl groups, which can influence chemical reactions inside insects by suppressing important enzymes, thus creating a toxic effect.

• Example product:
  methoxylglyxocal — a product used to control pest populations on crops such as cotton, rice, and vegetables.

2. Classification by mechanism of action

Glycoxals are classified based on how they affect the metabolism of insects. The products can influence different life stages of insects, from larvae to adults.

2.1. Products affecting larvae

Some glycoxals are designed to combat insect larvae by affecting their development and inhibiting metabolic processes.

• Example product:
  larval glyxocal — a product that affects insect larvae, preventing normal growth.

2.2. Systemic products

Systemic glycoxals penetrate the plant tissues and spread throughout the plant, providing long-term protection against pests. These insecticides are actively used for plant protection in the agricultural sector.

• Example product:
  glyxocal-s — a systemic product that effectively controls pest populations on vegetable and fruit crops.

2.3. Products affecting adult insects

Some glycoxals are effective against adult insects, impacting their nervous system and behavior. These products are often used to combat the most harmful pest species, such as flies, beetles, and mosquitoes.

• Example product:
  glyxocal-x — an insecticide used against adult harmful insects, such as fruit flies and mites.

3. Classification by toxicity

Glycoxals can also be classified by their toxicity to humans, animals, and the environment. Some glycoxals are highly toxic to insects but relatively safe for mammals and other animals when used correctly.

3.1. Highly toxic glycoxals

These products are highly toxic to insects and require caution when applied to avoid negative environmental effects.

• Example product:
  glyxocal-p — a highly toxic insecticide used to combat a wide range of pests.

3.2. Low toxicity glycoxals

Products in this category have low toxicity for humans and animals but are still effective in controlling insect populations.

• Example product:
  glyxocal-l — an insecticide with low toxicity, safe for use in organic farming.

4. Classification by area of application

Glycoxals can be classified based on the crops they are intended for and their application characteristics.

4.1. Glycoxals for agriculture

These products are used to protect agricultural crops from insect pests such as aphids, mites, whiteflies, and others.

• Example product:
  glyxocal-agro — an insecticide for protecting vegetable and cereal crops.

4.2. Glycoxals for horticulture and ornamental plants

These are used to protect ornamental plants, shrubs, and trees from pests such as beetles and other insect pests.

• Example product:
  glyxocal-garden — a product for protecting ornamental plants and fruit trees.

Mechanism of action

How insecticides affect the nervous system of insects

• Glycoxals affect the nervous system of insects indirectly by disrupting biological processes related to growth and metamorphosis. For example, moluskinals and hormonal inhibitors interfere with hormonal regulation, leading to disturbances in nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction, causing paralysis and insect death. Ecdysteroids, which mimic natural hormones, disrupt normal metamorphosis processes, also affecting the nervous system, leading to paralysis and insect death.

Impact on insect metabolism

• Disruption of hormonal regulation and metamorphosis leads to failures in the metabolic processes of insects, such as feeding, growth, and reproduction. This reduces the level of atp, which decreases the energy required for nervous system and muscle function. As a result, insects become less active, reducing their viability and leading to reduced pest populations.

Examples of molecular mechanisms of action

• Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase: some glycoxals block the activity of acetylcholinesterase, causing acetylcholine to accumulate in the synaptic cleft and disrupting nerve impulse transmission.
• Blocking sodium channels: pyrethroids and neonicotinoids block sodium channels in nerve cells, causing continuous nerve impulse excitation and muscle paralysis.
• Modulation of hormonal receptors: ecdysteroids and hormonal inhibitors interact with hormonal receptors, disrupting normal growth and metamorphosis regulation, leading to abnormal development and insect death.
• Disruption of genetic processes: insecticides that affect mutation processes cause dna and rna damage, preventing normal cell growth and development in insects.

Difference between contact and systemic effects

• Glycoxals can have both contact and systemic effects. Contact insecticides act directly when they come into contact with insects, penetrating through the cuticle or respiratory system and causing local disturbances in hormonal regulation and metabolism. Systemic insecticides penetrate plant tissues and spread throughout the plant, providing long-term protection from pests feeding on various parts of the plant. Systemic action allows for pest control over a longer period and in broader application zones, ensuring effective crop protection.

Examples of products in this group

Moluskinals
mechanism of action: synthetic analogs of juvenile hormones that block normal larval development in insects.
Example products:

• Moluskinal-250
• Rostopal
• Juvenil

Advantages and disadvantages

• Advantages: high efficiency against larvae, specificity of action, low toxicity to mammals.
• Disadvantages: potential resistance development in insects, toxicity to beneficial insects, limited spectrum of action.

Ecdysteroids
mechanism of action: mimics ecdysteroids, disrupting molting and metamorphosis processes in insects.
Example products:

• Pyritrox
• Ecdisterol
• Metamorphosine

Advantages and disadvantages

• Advantages: high efficiency against a wide range of insects, systemic action, low toxicity to mammals.
• Disadvantages: potential resistance development, toxicity to beneficial insects, high cost.

Hormonal inhibitors
mechanism of action: blocks the actions of natural growth and metamorphosis hormones, disrupting normal insect development.
Example products:

• Hormonal
• Inhibium
• Regulit

Advantages and disadvantages

• Advantages: specificity of action, effectiveness against various developmental stages of insects, low toxicity to mammals.
• Disadvantages: limited spectrum of action, potential resistance development, need for proper application.

Insecticides affecting mutation processes
mechanism of action: disrupts genetic processes, such as dna and rna synthesis, hindering normal growth and development of insect cells.
Example products:

• Genotype
• Mutacid
• Dna-spare

Advantages and disadvantages

• Advantages: high efficiency, specificity of action, ability to control resistant pest species.
• Disadvantages: possible effects on non-target organisms, high cost, difficulty in developing new products.

Synthetic bioactive compounds
mechanism of action: developed based on natural substances with specific mechanisms of action targeting insect biological processes.
Example products:

• Biogrow
• Actaxis
• Synthofit

Advantages and disadvantages

• Advantages: high efficacy, improved stability, low toxicity to mammals.
• Disadvantages: potential resistance development, need for an integrated approach to application, high cost.

Glycoxals and their environmental impact

Impact on beneficial insects

• Glycoxals have a toxic impact on beneficial insects, including bees, wasps, and other pollinators, as well as predatory insects that naturally control pest populations. This leads to reduced biodiversity and disruption of ecosystem balance, which negatively affects agricultural productivity and biodiversity. The impact of glycoxals on pollinators is particularly dangerous, as it can reduce yield and product quality.

Residual amounts of insecticides in soil, water, and plants

• Glycoxals can accumulate in the soil over time, especially in high humidity and temperature conditions. This leads to contamination of water sources through runoff and infiltration. In plants, glycoxals distribute throughout all parts, including leaves, stems, and roots, providing systemic protection but also leading to pesticide accumulation in food products and soil, which can negatively affect the health of humans and animals.

Photostability and degradation of insecticides in the environment

• Many glycoxals have high photostability, which increases their persistence in the environment. This prevents glycoxals from breaking down quickly under sunlight and contributes to their accumulation in soil and aquatic ecosystems. Their high resistance to degradation complicates the removal of glycoxals from the environment and increases the risk of their impact on non-target organisms.

Biomagnification and accumulation in food chains

• Glycoxals can accumulate in the bodies of insects and animals, moving up the food chain and causing biomagnification. This leads to increased pesticide concentrations at higher levels of the food chain, including predators and humans. The biomagnification of glycoxals causes serious ecological and health problems, as accumulated insecticides can cause chronic poisoning and health disorders in animals and humans. For example, accumulation of glycoxals in insect tissues can transfer them to higher levels of the food chain, affecting predatory insects and other animals.

The problem of insect resistance to glycoxals

Reasons for resistance development

• The development of resistance to glycoxals in insects is due to genetic mutations and the selection of resistant individuals through repeated application of the insecticide. Frequent and uncontrolled use of glycoxals promotes the rapid spread of resistant genes among pest populations. Inadequate adherence to dosage and application regimes also accelerates the resistance development, making the insecticide less effective. Additionally, using the same mechanism of action over extended periods leads to the selection of resistant insects, reducing overall pest control effectiveness.

Examples of resistant pests

• Resistance to glycoxals has been observed in various insect pests, including whiteflies, aphids, mites, and certain moth species. For example, resistance to moluskinals has been recorded in certain populations of aphids and whiteflies, making them harder to control and leading to the need for more expensive and toxic treatments or the adoption of alternative control methods. Resistance development is also seen in some species of colorado potato beetles, increasing the difficulty in combating this pest and requiring more complex control strategies.

Methods to prevent resistance

• To prevent resistance development, it is essential to rotate insecticides with different mechanisms of action, combine chemical and biological control methods, and implement integrated pest management strategies. It is also important to follow recommended dosages and application regimes to prevent the selection of resistant individuals and maintain the efficacy of the products over the long term. Additional measures include using mixed products, implementing cultural practices to reduce pest pressure, and utilizing biological control agents to maintain ecosystem balance.

Safe use of insecticides

Preparing solutions and dosages

• Proper preparation of solutions and precise dosing of glycoxals are crucial for effective and safe application. It is essential to strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions for solution preparation and dosing to avoid overdosing or under-treating plants. The use of measuring tools and clean water helps ensure accurate dosing and effective application. It is recommended to test small areas before large-scale use of insecticides to determine optimal conditions and dosages.

Using protective equipment when handling insecticides

• When handling glycoxals, it is important to use appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing, to minimize the risk of insecticide exposure to the human body. Protective equipment helps prevent skin and mucous membrane contact as well as inhalation of toxic insecticide vapors. Additionally, proper safety measures should be followed during storage and transportation to prevent accidental exposure to children and pets.

Recommendations for treating plants

• Treat plants with glycoxals in the early morning or late evening to avoid impact on pollinators, such as bees. Avoid application during hot and windy weather, as this can lead to pesticide spray drift and contamination of beneficial plants and organisms. It is also recommended to consider the plant’s growth stage, avoiding treatments during active flowering and fruiting periods to minimize the risk to pollinators and reduce the chance of pesticide residue on fruits and seeds.

Observing waiting periods before harvesting

• Observing the recommended waiting periods before harvesting after applying glycoxals ensures the safety of consumption and prevents pesticide residues from entering food products. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for waiting periods to avoid poisoning risks and ensure product quality. Incorrect adherence to waiting periods can lead to pesticide buildup in food, which negatively affects the health of humans and animals.

Alternatives to chemical insecticides

Biological insecticides

• The use of entomophages, bacterial, and fungal preparations is an environmentally safe alternative to chemical insecticides targeting insect growth and development. Biological insecticides, such as bacillus thuringiensis and beauveria bassiana, effectively combat pest insects without harming beneficial organisms and the environment. These methods contribute to sustainable pest management and biodiversity preservation, reducing the need for chemical substances and minimizing the environmental footprint of agricultural practices.

Natural insecticides

• Natural insecticides, such as neem oil, tobacco infusions, and garlic solutions, are safe for plants and the environment for pest control. These methods have repellent and insecticidal properties, enabling effective insect population management without synthetic chemicals. Neem oil, for example, contains azadirachtin and nimbin, which disrupt feeding and growth in insects, causing paralysis and death of pests. Natural insecticides can be used in combination with other methods for the best results and to reduce the risk of pest resistance.

Pheromone traps and other mechanical methods

• Pheromone traps attract and capture pest insects, reducing their numbers and preventing further spread. Pheromones are chemical signals that insects use for communication, such as attracting mates for reproduction. Installing pheromone traps allows for targeted pest control without affecting non-target organisms. Other mechanical methods, such as sticky traps, barriers, and physical nets, also help control pest populations without chemical treatments. These methods are effective and environmentally safe, contributing to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem balance.

Examples of popular insecticides in this group

Product name	Active ingredient	Mechanism of action	Application area
Genotype	Genotype	Disrupts dna and rna synthesis, preventing cell growth	Vegetable crops, cereals, fruits
Mutacid	Mutacid	Damages genetic material, hindering normal cell development	Cereal crops, vegetables, fruits
Dna-spare	Dna-spare	Inhibits dna and rna synthesis, disrupting cell growth	Vegetable crops, cereals, fruits
Pyritrox	Pyritrox	Mimics ecdysteroids, disrupting molting and metamorphosis	Vegetable and fruit crops, horticulture
Ecdisterol	Ecdisterol	Mimics ecdysteroids, disrupting molting and metamorphosis	Vegetable and fruit crops, horticulture
Regulit	Regulit	Blocks hormonal receptors, disrupting growth and metamorphosis	Vegetable crops, ornamental plants

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages

• High efficacy against target pest insects.
• Specificity of action, minimal impact on mammals.
• Ability to control various life stages of insects.
• Can be combined with other control methods for increased effectiveness.
• Rapid action leading to quick reduction in pest populations.
• Systemic distribution in the plant providing long-term protection.

Disadvantages

• Toxicity to beneficial insects, including bees and wasps.
• Potential for resistance development in pest insects.
• Possible contamination of soil and water sources.
• High cost of some insecticides compared to traditional agents.
• Need for strict adherence to dosages and application regimes to prevent negative consequences.
• Limited spectrum of action for certain insecticides.

Risks and precautions

Impact on human and animal health

• Glycoxals, which affect the growth and development of insects, can have serious impacts on human and animal health if used incorrectly. If ingested, they can cause symptoms of poisoning, such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and in extreme cases, seizures and loss of consciousness. Animals, especially pets, are also at risk of poisoning when exposed to insecticide residues on their skin or by ingesting treated plants.

Symptoms of pesticide poisoning

• Symptoms of glyxocal poisoning include dizziness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, weakness, difficulty breathing, seizures, and loss of consciousness. If the insecticide comes into contact with the eyes or skin, irritation, redness, and burning may occur. In case of ingestion, immediate medical attention is necessary.

First aid for poisoning

• If glyxocal poisoning is suspected, immediately cease contact with the insecticide, wash affected skin or eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. If inhaled, move to fresh air and seek medical help. In case of ingestion, call for emergency medical help and follow the first aid instructions on the product label.

Conclusion

The rational use of glycoxals, which affect the growth and development of insects, plays a significant role in protecting plants and increasing the productivity of agricultural and ornamental crops. However, safety rules must be followed, and environmental considerations should be taken into account to minimize negative impacts on the environment and beneficial organisms. An integrated approach to pest management, combining chemical, biological, and cultural control methods, supports sustainable agricultural development and biodiversity preservation. It is also important to continue research into the development of new insecticides and control methods aimed at reducing risks to human health and ecosystems.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. What are glycoxals and what are they used for? Glycoxals are a class of insecticides that Affect the growth and development of insects. They are used to control pest insect populations, protect agricultural crops and ornamental plants, increase yield, and prevent plant damage.
2. How do glycoxals affect the nervous system of insects? Glycoxals affect the nervous system Of insects indirectly by disrupting hormonal regulation and metamorphosis, which leads to the disruption of nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction, causing paralysis and insect death.
3. Are glycoxals harmful to beneficial insects, such as bees? Yes, glycoxals can be toxic to Beneficial insects, including bees and wasps. Their use requires strict adherence to regulations to minimize their impact on beneficial insects and prevent biodiversity loss.
4. How can resistance to glycoxals in insects be prevented? To prevent resistance, it is Necessary to rotate insecticides with different mechanisms of action, combine chemical and biological control methods, and adhere to recommended dosages and application schedules. Implementing integrated pest management strategies that reduce pesticide pressure is also essential.
5. What environmental problems are associated with the use of glycoxals? The use of Glycoxals leads to the decline in populations of beneficial insects, contamination of soil and water, and the accumulation of insecticides in food chains, which causes serious ecological and health-related issues.
6. Can glycoxals be used in organic farming? Some glycoxals may be approved for use in Organic farming, especially those based on natural microbes and plant extracts. However, synthetic glycoxals typically do not meet organic farming requirements due to their chemical origin and potential environmental and beneficial organism impact.
7. How should glycoxals be applied for maximum effectiveness? It is essential to strictly follow The manufacturer's instructions for dosage and application schedules, treat plants in the early morning or late evening to avoid affecting pollinators, and ensure uniform distribution of the insecticide on plants. It is also recommended to test small areas before widespread application.
8. Are there alternatives to glycoxals for pest control? Yes, there are biological insecticides, Natural products (such as neem oil, garlic solutions), pheromone traps, and mechanical control methods that can be used as alternatives to glycoxals. These methods help reduce reliance on chemicals and minimize environmental impact.
9. How can the impact of glycoxals on the environment be minimized? Use insecticides only When necessary, follow recommended dosages and application schedules, avoid pesticide runoff into water sources, and implement integrated pest management to reduce dependence on chemical methods. Also, using insecticides with high specificity of action helps minimize the effect on non-target organisms.
10. Where can glycoxals be purchased? Glycoxals are available at specialized agro-technical Stores, online stores, and from plant protection suppliers. Before purchasing, ensure the legality and safety of the products, and verify their compliance with the requirements of either organic or conventional farming practices.