To promote plant development and enhance agricultural yield, farmers utilise a variety of agrochemicals. Insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, weedicides, and other pesticides are among the agrochemicals. The agrochemicals and their classification are mentioned in this chapter. The pros and cons of agrochemicals are also discussed in the report. Focus is also placed on how agrochemicals affect the ecology and how they work. Included are the risks and protective measures related to the usage of agrochemicals. These crucial agrochemical issues will be covered in full in the study. Future research into the molecular basis of agrochemical mechanisms must be done.
Top2. Agrochemical Types
Fungicides:
Inorganic fungicides play a crucial role in plant disease management. Mercuric chloride (HgCl2) disrupts fungal cell membranes and enzymes through sulfhydryl binding, impairing vital processes. However, its high toxicity limits its use. Sulfur, a widely employed fungicide, works by inhibiting spore germination and fungal growth. It's effective against a range of diseases and has low toxicity to humans and animals. The Bordeaux mixture, combining copper sulfate (CuSO4) and lime, offers a dual defense mechanism. Copper ions disrupt fungal enzymes and generate toxic compounds, while lime enhances adhesion and prolongs efficacy. These inorganic fungicides are cost-effective and diverse in action, reducing the risk of resistance development. However, their environmental impact and potential harm to non-target organisms necessitate judicious use and exploration of safer alternatives in modern agricultural practices.
Organic fungicides offer effective alternatives for plant disease control. Dithanes like S-21 and Z-78 belong to the ethylenebisdithiocarbamate group, inhibiting fungal enzyme activity by disrupting cell membrane integrity. Oxathiins, represented by Vitavax, function as protective fungicides, forming a shield on plant surfaces to prevent fungal invasion. Mercury compounds like Agrosan and Tillex exert antifungal effects through multiple mechanisms, inhibiting enzymes crucial for fungal growth. Benzimidazole derivatives like Benlate interfere with fungal cell division and DNA synthesis, impeding disease progression. These organic fungicides provide diverse modes of action, reducing the likelihood of resistance development. However, their persistence in the environment and potential ecological impacts warrant careful application. Integrating these fungicides into integrated pest management strategies can enhance disease control while minimizing risks to non-target organisms and the ecosystem.
Herbicides: following are the different examples of herbicides
Methyl Bromide (CH3Br): Methyl bromide was commonly used as a broad-spectrum soil fumigant to control a wide range of pests and diseases. However, due to its negative environmental impact and role in ozone depletion, its use has been largely phased out under international agreements like the Montreal Protocol.
Ethylene Bromide (C2H4Br2): Ethylene bromide was used as a fumigant as well, particularly for soil disinfection and pest control. Like methyl bromide, its use has also been restricted due to environmental concerns.