Which type of pesticide affects the nervous system of insects?

Neonicotinoids are synthetic pesticides that interact with the nervous system of insects. They act as agonists at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which are critical for neuronal signaling. By binding to these receptors, neonicotinoids disrupt normal nervous system function, leading to paralysis and eventual death in insects. Their mode of action is similar to nicotine, which explains their effectiveness against a wide range of pests.

Understanding the mechanisms of different pesticide classes is essential for integrated pest management. For example, although organochlorines and pyrethroids also have neurotoxic effects, they operate through different pathways that may not exclusively target the nicotinic receptors. Insect Growth Regulators, on the other hand, do not affect the nervous system; instead, they disrupt the growth and development processes of insects. This distinction highlights the unique role neonicotinoids play among these pesticide types.