Question

Which is plant originated insecticide?

• A. Pyrethrum
• B. Permethrin
• C. Cypermethrin
• D. Imidaclorpid

Hint:

Natural = Pyrethrum (from flowers).
Synthetic = Pyrethroids (Permethrin, Cypermethrin).
Other famous plant insecticides: Neem (Azadirachtin), Nicotine (Tobacco), Rotenone (Derris roots).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify a "botanical" insecticide, which is a substance derived naturally from plants to kill insects.
Detailed Explanation:

• Origin of Pyrethrum:
Pyrethrum is a natural insecticide extracted from the dried flower heads of certain chrysanthemum species, primarily Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium.
The active insecticidal components in this extract are called "Pyrethrins."
They have been used for centuries because of their rapid "knockdown" effect on flying insects.

• Synthetic Alternatives (Pyrethroids):
Permethrin and Cypermethrin are "Synthetic Pyrethroids."
While their chemical structure is inspired by natural pyrethrum, they are manufactured in laboratories to be more stable and longer-lasting in sunlight.
Natural pyrethrum breaks down very quickly in UV light, which makes it safe for domestic use but less effective for long-term crop protection.

• Other Options:
Imidacloprid: This is a synthetic neonicotinoid insecticide. It is a systemic neurotoxin modeled after the structure of nicotine but is entirely human-made.

• Advantages of Plant-Originated Insecticides:
They generally have low toxicity to mammals and birds.
They are biodegradable and do not persist in the environment as long as organochlorines.
They are often used in "Organic Farming" systems.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Pyrethrum is a natural insecticide of plant origin.