imidacloprid

Imidacloprid is a common neonicotinoid systemic insecticide used to control agricultural pests like aphids and mites. It is applied to the soil and absorbed by plant roots, making the entire plant toxic to insects. This systemic action provides longer-lasting protection than contact pesticides, especially against insects that feed on roots or bore into plants.123

Neonicotinoids, including imidacloprid, work by affecting the insect's central nervous system, leading to paralysis and death. They are designed to be more toxic to insects than to vertebrates. However, imidacloprid is considered highly toxic to bees and has raised environmental concerns due to its negative impact on non-target organisms, leading to restrictions on its use in some countries.21