Chlorantraniliprole (Rynaxypyr): A novel DuPont^™ insecticide with low toxicity and low risk for honey bees (<i>Apis mellifera</i>) and bumble bees (<i>Bombus terrestris</i>) providing excellent tools for uses in integrated pest management

Abstract

contribution to session IV

Test methodology

Background: The effects on bees of chlorantraniliprole (DPX-E2Y45, DuPont^™ Rynaxypyr), a new anthranilic diamide insecticide with a novel and very specific mode of action activating insect ryanodine receptors were investigated.

Results: Acute toxicity tests with chlorantraniliprole and the formulations, Coragen and Altacor, demonstrated low intrinsic toxicity to honey bees. Low risk for honey bees was demonstrated in semi-field tunnel tests with flowering Phacelia or wheat (with daily sprays of sugar solution to simulate honey dew) at application rates of Coragen of up to 60 g chlorantraniliprole/ha. Low potential of systemic exposure via pollen and nectar of honeybees to chlorantraniliprole was documented in a residue Phacelia tunnel trial with chlorantraniliprole applied to and mixed into bare soil. The impact of Altacor on bumble bees was studied in a greenhouse test in tomato at 40 g chlorantraniliprole/ha. Bumble bees directly over-sprayed during foraging activity with chlorantraniliprole or exposed to treated plants behaved as controls. Conclusion: Chlorantraniliprole formulations provide excellent tools for integrated pest management (IPM) programmes to conserve pollinating honey bees and bumble bees. Keywords: Chlorantraniliprole, Rynaxypyr®, insecticide, side-effects, honey bee, bumble bee, integrated pest management (IPM)