Metaldehyde

Metaldehyde is a white crystalline substance isomeric with, and obtained from, acetic aldehyde by polymerization, and reconvertible into the same. Excess mucus production is the first sign of poisoning in both slugs and snails. This reaction depletes the slugs’ energy reserves and weakens the slug. Subsequently, cell membranes are ruptured and mucus cells irreversibly destroyed after which death is inevitable. These effects occur at temperatures as low as 2°C and slugs cannot recover by taking up ambient water.

Metaldehyde has been the standard bait used for many years and is most effective in dry, warm weather. It doesn't kill the pest directly but it paralyzes them and causes them to froth and loose large amounts of water. During warm weather or on dry days, the pests die of desiccation. It is less effective in rainy weather or in cool areas because the pests recover a few days after eating the bait. Avoid scattering baits under dense plants where there is no sunlight as this diminishes control. Metaldehyde is the most commonly used molluscicide. It usually is sold in the form of slug baits. Liquid formulations (Deadline, Slug-it, etc.) also have become popular. Metaldehyde can be used around vegetable and fruit crops as well as in flower gardens or among nonfood crops. Metaldehyde is attractive and poisonous to slugs. After feeding on it, the slugs become immobilized and start to produce large amounts of mucous. Death results from excessive loss of water.

Successful use of metaldehyde baits requires careful application and favorable weather conditions. Slugs often can recover from metaldehyde poisoning if high moisture conditions occur. Also, control is poor during cool periods because slugs are relatively inactive. Apply metaldehyde when the evening is warm and the forecast for the following day is hot and dry. Young slugs are more susceptible than older slugs.

The range of metaldehyde attraction is limited so spread it throughout the infested area. Use 10 or more pieces of bait (flakes, pellets, liquid drops) per square yard. The amount needed for effective control varies depending on the attractiveness of other food in the area. Metaldehyde is rapidly inactivated by sunlight so spread it underneath leaves late in the day. Please note that Metaldehyde is attractive to an potentially hazardous to dogs. Do not allow dogs access to metaldehyde packages. An alternative bait for slugs is iron phosphate (e.g., Slugo) has been recently marketed. This is considered to be a less hazardous material than metaldehyde to dogs. However, data suggests that it is probably less effective for slug control. Metaldehyde baits can be used around food plants as long as the edible parts of the plant do not contact the bait.

Metaldehyde and Sevin or (carabyl) are sometimes combined as baits. Sevin increases the effectiveness against cutworms, sowbugs, earwigs and other insect pests. Use baits in groundcovers, hedge rows, and other shady, moist areas where slugs and snails hide. Metaldehyde is the active ingredient in all slug and snail baits. Because there are no other chemical controls, continuous use of this product result in resistant populations. For this reason, use baits only when necessary and as part of an integrated pest management program that emphasizes other control measures.

Since metaldehyde does not harm beneficial organisms such as earthworms and carabid beetles, it is ideal for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) farming systems. It is also officially approved by the EU for use in organic farming. Metaldehyde is known to be an effective molluscicide against slugs and snails of economic importance. However, its efficacy can be compromised when substandard baits are used in an inappropriate manner.

Chemical name: 2,4,6,8-tetramethyl-1,3,5,7-tetraoxacyclooctane
Chemical Formula: C8H16O4
Molecular Formula:(C2H4O)4
Molecular Weight:176
CAS Number:108-62-3

Specification Appearance White Needle -Shaped Crystall
Purity 99% Minimum
Acetaldehyde ---
Paraldehyde ---

Packing: carbonboard drum and in plastic bags, net 25 kgs each (to be classified as 4.1 solid flame during transportation)

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