Mode of Action Classification

Edition: 11.4
Now Including Nematicides
 The Insecticide Resistance Action Committee
Mode of Action Classification Brochure

Edition: 11.4 – May 2025

Based on the IRAC MoA Classification Version 11.4 and

Nematicide MoA Classification Version 2.2

Disclaimer: While CropLife International and IRAC make every effort to present accurate and reliab le information , they do not guarantee the accuracy,
completeness, efficacy, timeliness, or correct sequencing of such information. Inclusion of active ingredients on the IRAC Code Lists is based on scientific
evaluation of their modes of action; it does not provide any kind of testimonial for the use of a product or a judgment on efficacy. CropLife International and
IRAC are not responsible for, and expressly disclaim all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or relian ce on information provided.
Listing of chemical classes or modes of action mu st not be interpreted as approval for use of a compound in a given country. Prior to implementation, each
user must determine the cu rrent registration status in the country of use and strictly adhere to the uses and instructions approved in that country.

IRAC document protected by © Copyright 2025

1
Foreword

Effective insecticide resistance management (IRM) in conjunction with integrated pest

management (IPM) is vital to global crop protection, sustainable agriculture and improved
public health, and it is an essential element of responsible product stewardship.

The Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) was formed in 1984 and works as a
specialist technical group of the industry association CropLife International, to provide a
coordinated crop protection industry response to prevent or delay the development of
resistance in insect, mite and nematode pests. There are now IRAC country group
committees in many parts of the world, researching and responding to local resistance
issues, as well as the parent IRAC International group, which provides a coordinating and
supporting role at the global level (see also www.irac-online.org).

Developing new products is becoming increasingly difficult and costly, so it is vital to protect
those effective products in the marketplace from the development of resistance. Moreover,
with fewer new products being discovered and regulatory pressures reducing the number of
older commercial control methods available, the ‘toolbox’ of usable products is being
reduced, making effective IRM more important than ever. The Mode of Action Classification
Scheme is a key part of IRAC’s global resistance management strategy.

2
 Insecticide/Acaricide
MoA Classification

The CropLife and IRAC member companies support the inclusion of MoA
information on product labels which will ensure growers have simple access to
critical information to support implementation of resistance management.
Further details on MoA Labelling Guidance can be found on the CropLife website
under Resources (https://croplife.org/resource-library/)

3
Mode of Action Classification
IRAC promotes the use of a Mode of Action (MoA) Classification of insecticides and acaricides
as the basis for effective and sustainable resistance management. Actives are allocated to
specific groups based on their target site. Reviewed and re-issued periodically, the IRAC MoA
Classification Scheme provides farmers, growers, advisors, extension staff, consultants and
crop protection professionals with a guide to the selection of acaricides and insecticides in
resistance management programs. Effective resistance management of this type preserves
the utility and diversity of available insecticides and acaricides. A complete list of the different
MoA groups is shown in the following pages, followed by a breakdown of MoAs available for
Lepidoptera, aphids, whitefly, plant- and leafhoppers, mites and mosquitoes. For further
information, please refer to the full IRAC MoA Classification Scheme on the IRAC website
(www.irac-online.org).

What is Resistance?
Resistance to insecticides may be defined as ‘a heritable change in the sensitivity of a pest
population that is reflected in the repeated failure of a product to achieve the expected level
of control when used according to the label recommendation for that pest species’ (IRAC).
Resistance arises through the over-use or misuse of an insecticide or acaricide against a pest
species, and results in the Darwinian selection of resistant forms of the pest and the
consequent evolution of populations that are resistant to that insecticide or acaricide.

4
Effective IRM Strategies: Sequences or Alternations of MoA
All effective insecticide resistance management (IRM) strategies seek to minimise the
selection of resistance to any one type of insecticide. In practice, alternations, sequences or
rotations of compounds from different MoA groups provide sustainable and effective IRM
for insect and mite pests. This ensures that selection from compounds in the same MoA
group is minimised, and resistance is less likely to evolve.

Example: MoA MoA MoA MoA MoA MoA

W X Y Z W X

Sequence of insecticides through the season

Applications are often arranged into MoA spray windows or blocks that are defined by the
stage of crop development, together with the biology and phenology of the species of
concern. Local expert advice should always be followed with regard to spray windows and
timing. Several sprays may be possible within each spray window, but it is generally essential
that successive generations of the pest are not treated with compounds from the same MoA
group. IRAC also offers specific recommendations for some MoA groups. Metabolic
resistance mechanisms may give cross-resistance between MoA groups; where this is known
to occur, the above advice should be modified accordingly. For further information on the
use of MoA groups and sub-groups, please see the notes at the end of the brochure and in
the full MoA Classification Scheme.
5
 IRAC Mode of Action Classification Scheme (Classification Version 11.4)
Targeted Physiology: Nerve & Growth & Respiration Midgut Protein Unknown or
Muscle Dev elopment Suppressor Non-specific
Note: Rotations for resistance management should be based only on the numbered mode of action groups - see table footnotes for details

Main Group/Primary Subgroup, class or Active Ingredients

Site of Action Exemplifying active
1 Acetylcholinesterase Al anycarb, Al di carb, Bendi ocarb, Benfuracarb, Butocarboxim, Butoxycarboxim,
(AChE) inhibitors Carbaryl, Carbofuran, Carbosulfan, Ethiofencarb, Fenobucarb, Formetanate,
1A Carbamates Furathiocarb, Isoprocarb, Methiocarb, Methomyl , Metolcarb, Oxamyl ,
See footnotes for Piri micarb, Propoxur, Thi odi carb, Thi ofanox, Triazamate, Trimethacarb, XMC,
further in formation Xylyl carb
on us e of compounds
between sub-groups .
Acephate, Azamethiphos, Azinphos-ethyl, Azinphos-methyl , Cadusafos,
Chlorethoxyfos, Chlorfenvinphos, Chlormephos, Chlorpyrifos, Chlorpyrifos-
methyl , Coumaphos, Cyanophos, Demeton-S-methyl , Diazinon, Dichlorvos/
DDVP, Dicrotophos, Dimethoate, Dimethylv inphos, Disul fot on, EPN, Ethion,
Ethoprophos, Famphur, Fenamiphos, Fenitrothion, Fenthion, Fosthiazate,
Hept enophos, Imicyafos, Isofenphos, Isopropyl O-(methoxyaminothio-
1B Organophosphates phosphory l) sali cylat e, Isoxathion, Malathion, Mecarbam, Methamidophos,
Methidathion, Mevinphos, Monocrotophos, Naled, Omet hoate, Oxydemeton-
methyl , Parathion, Parathion-methyl , Phenthoate, Phorate, Phosalone,
Phosmet, Phosphamidon, Phoxim, Piri miphos- methyl , Profenofos,
Propetamphos, Prothiofos, Pyraclofos, Pyri daphenthion, Quinalphos, Sulfotep,
Tebupirimfos, Temephos, Terbufos, Tetrachlorvinphos, Thi ometon, Triazophos,
Trichlorfon, Vami dot hi on

2 GABA-gated chloride 2A Cyclodiene

Chlordane, Endosul fan
channel blockers Organochlorines

2B Phenyl py razoles
Ethiprole, Fipronil
(Fiproles)

6
3 Sodium channel Acrinathrin, Al let hrin, d-cis-trans Al let hrin, d-trans Al let hrin, Bifenthrin,
modulators Bioallethrin, Bioallethrin S-cylcl opentenyl, Bioresmethri n, Cycloprothrin,
Cyfluthri n, bet a-Cyfluthri n, Cyhalothrin, lambda-Cyhalothrin, gamma-
See footnotes for Cyhalothrin, Cypermethrin, alpha-Cypermethrin, bet a-Cypermethrin, theta-
further in formation 3A Pyrethroi ds
cypermethrin, zeta-Cypermethrin, Cyphenot hrin [(1R)-trans- isomers],
on us e of compounds Pyrethri ns Del tamet hrin, Empent hrin [(EZ)- (1R)- isomers], Esfenvalerate, Etofenprox,
between sub-groups .
Fenpropat hrin, Fenvalerate, Fl ucy thrinat e, Fl umethrin, tau-Fl uv alinate,
Hal fenprox, Imiprothrin, Kadethrin, Permethri n, Phenothrin [(1R)-trans- isomer],
Prallethrin, Pyrethri ns (pyrethrum), Resmethrin, Si lafluofen, Tefluthri n,
Tetramet hrin, Tetr amet hrin [(1R)-isomers], Tral omethrin, Transfluthrin
3B DDT DDT
Methoxychlor Methoxychlor
4 Nicotinic Acetamiprid, Clothianidin, Dinotefuran, Imidacl oprid, Nitenpyram, Thi aclopri d,
4A Neonicotinoids
acetylcholine Thi amethoxam
receptor (nAChR)
competitive 4B Nicotine Nicotine
modulators
See footnotes for 4C Sulfoximines Sulfoxaflor
further in formation
on us e of compounds 4D Butenolides Fl upyradifurone
between sub-groups .
4E Mesoi oni cs Dicloromezotiaz, Fenmezoditiaz, Triflumezopyrim

4F Pyri dy lidenes Fl upyrimi n

5 Nicotinic acetyl-
choline receptor
(nAChR) allosteric Spinosyns Spinetoram, Spinosad
modulators - Site I
6 Glutamate-gated
chloride channel Av ermectins,
(GluCl) allosteric Abamectin, Emamectin benzoate, Lepimectin, Milbemectin
Milbemy cins
modulators

7
Main Group/Primary Subgroup, class or Active Ingredients
Site of Action Exemplifying active
7 Juvenile hormone 7A Juvenile hormone
Hydroprene, Kinoprene, Met hoprene
receptor modulators analogues

7B Fenoxycarb Fenoxycarb

7C Pyri proxyfen Pyri proxyfen

8 Miscellaneous non- 8A Al kyl halides 1,3-Dichloropropene, Methyl bromide and other alkyl halides
* specific (multi-site)
inhibitors 8B Chloropicrin Chloropicrin

8C Fl uorides Cry olite (Sodium aluminum fluoride), Sulfury l fluoride

8D Borates Borax, Bori c acid, Di sodium octaborate, Sodium borate, Sodi um metaborate

8E Tart ar emet ic Tart ar emet ic

8F Methyl Dazomet, Metam, Methyl isothiocyanate

isothiocyanate
generat ors

9 Chordotonal organ 9B Pyri di ne azomet hi ne Pymetrozi ne, Pyri fl uquinazon

TRPV channel derivatives
modulators
9D Pyropenes Afidopyropen

10 Mite growth 10A Clofentezine Clofentezine, Diflovidazin, Hexythiazox

inhibitors affecting Diflovidazin
CHS1 Hexythiazox
10A Sub-grouping
informatio n in footnotes 10B Etoxazole Etoxazole
8
11 Microbial disruptors 11A Bacillus Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israel ensis
of insect midgut thuringiensis and t he Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai
membranes insect icidal proteins Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki
they produce Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. tenebrionis

See footnotes for further Bt crop protei ns: (see footnote)

sub-grouping Cry 1Ab, Cry1Ac, Cry1Fa, Cry1A.105, Cry2Ab, Vip3A, mCry3A, Cry3Ab, Cry3Bb,
information Cry 34Ab1/Cry35Ab1

11B Bacillus sphaericus Bacillus sphaericus

12 Inhibitors of 12A Diafenthiuron Diafenthiuron

mitochondrial ATP
synthase 12B Organotin miticides Azocyclot in, Cyhexatin, Fenbut atin oxi de

12C Propargit e Propargit e

12D Tetradifon Tetradifon

13 Uncouplers of Pyrroles Chlorfenapyr, DNOC, Sulfluramid

* oxidative phosph- Dinitrophenols
orylation via dis- Sulfluramid
ruption of the
proton gradient

14 Nicotinic acetyl- Nereistoxin analogues Bensultap, Cartap hydrochloride, Thiocyclam, Thiosultap-sodium

choline receptor
(nAChR) channel
blockers

9
Main Group/Primary Subgroup, class or Active Ingredients
Site of Action Exemplifying active
15 Inhibitors of chitin Benzoyl ureas Bistri fl uron, Chl orfluazuron, Diflubenzuron, Fl ucy cloxuron, Flufenoxuron,
biosynthesis Hexaflumuron, Lufenuron, Novaluron, Noviflumuron, Teflubenzuron,
affecting CHS1 Triflumuron

16 Inhibitors of chitin Buprofezin Buprofezin

biosynthesis, type 1

17 Moulting disruptors, Cyromazine Cyromazine

Dipteran

18 Ecdysone receptor Diacy lhydrazines Chromafenozide, Hal ofenozide, Methoxyfenozide, Tebufenozide

agonists

19 Octopamine Amitraz Amitraz

receptor agonists

20 Mitochondrial 20A Hydramethylnon Hydramethylnon

complex III electron
transport inhibitors 20B Acequinocyl Acequinocyl
– Qo site
20C Fl uacrypyrim Fl uacrypyrim

20D Bifenazate Bifenazate

21 Mitochondrial 21A METI acaricides Fenazaquin, Fenpyroximate, Pyridaben, Pyrimidifen, Tebufenpyrad, Tolfenpyrad
complex I electron and i nsecticides
transport inhibitors
21B Rotenone Rotenone (Derris)

10
22 Voltage-dependent 22A Oxadiazines Indoxacarb
sodium channel
blockers
See footnotes for
further infor mation 22B Semicarbazones Metaflumizone
on sub-grouping

23 Inhibitors of acetyl- Tetronic and Tet ramic Spidoxamat, Spirodiclofen, Spiromesifen, Spiropidion, Spirotetramat
CoA carboxylase acid derivatives

24 Mitochondrial 24A Phosphides Al uminium phosphide, Calcium phosphide, Phosphine, Zi nc phosphide

complex IV
electron transport
inhibitors 24B Cyanides Calcium cy anide, Potassium cyanide, Sodi um cyanide

25 Mitochondrial 25A bet a-Ketonitril e Cyenopyrafen, Cyflumetofen

complex II derivatives
electron transport
inhibitors
See footnotes for 25B Carboxanili des Pyflubumide
further infor mation
on sub-grouping

28 Ryanodine receptor Diamides Chlorantraniliprole, Cyantrani liprole, Cyclaniliprol e, Fl ubendiamide,

modulators Tetranili prole

29 Chordotonal organ Fl oni camid Fl oni camid

nicotinamidase
inhibitors

11
Main Group/Primary Subgroup, class or Active Ingredients
Site of Action Exemplifying active

30 GAB A-gated Meta-diamides Broflanilide

chloride channel Isoxazoli nes Cyproflanilide
allosteric Fl uxametamide
modulators Isocycloseram

31 Baculoviruses Granul oviruses (GVs) Cydia pomonell a GV

Host-specific Thaumatotibi a leucotreta GV
occluded pathogenic Nucleopolyhedroviruses Anti carsia gemmatalis MNPV
viruses (NPVs) Hel iocoverpa armi gera NPV

32 Nicotinic acetyl- GS-omega/kappa HXTX- GS-omega/kappa HXTX-Hv1a peptide

choline receptor Hv1a peptide
(nAChR) allosteric
modulators - Site II

33 Calcium-activated Acy nonapyr Acy nonapyr

potassium channel
…..(KCa2) modulators

34 Mitochondrial Fl ometoquin Fl ometoquin

complex III electron
transport inhibitors
– Qi site

35 RN A Interference Ledprona Ledprona

mediated target
suppressors

36 Chordotonal organ Pyri dazine Dimpropy ridaz

modulators – pyrazolecarboxamides
undefined target site

12
37 Vesicular acetyl- Oxazosulfyl Oxazosulfyl
choline transporter
(VAChT) inhibitor

UN Compounds of Azadi rachtin Azadi rachti n

* unknown or
uncertain mode of Benzoximat e Benzoximat e
action
Benzpyrimoxan Benzpyrimoxan

Bromopropylate Bromopropylate

Chinomethionat Chinomethionat

Dicofol Dicofol

Lime sulfur Lime sulfur

Mancozeb Mancozeb

Pyri dalyl Pyri dalyl

Sulfur Sulfur

UNB Bacterial agents Burkholderia spp

* (non-Bt) Wolbachia pipientis (Zap)

UNE Botanical essence Chenopodi um ambrosioides near ambrosioides extract, Clitori a terntea extract,
* including Fatty acid monoesters with gly cerol or propanediol, Neem oil, Nonanoic acid,
synthetic, extracts Sabadill a extract
and unrefined oils
UNF Fungal agents Akanthomy ces muscarius Ve6, Beauveria bassiana strains, Metarhizi um
* brunneum strain F52, Paecilomyces fumosoroseus Apopka strain 97
13
Main Group/Primary Subgroup, class or Active Ingredients
Site of Action Exemplifying active
UNM Non-specific Diat omaceous earth, Mineral oil, Polydimethyl sil oxane (PDMS)
* mechanical and
……… physical
disruptors

UNP Peptides
*
UNV Viral agents (non
* baculovirus)
Nerve & Growth & Respiration Midgut Protein Unknown or
Targeted Physiology: Muscle Development Suppressor Non-specific
The colour scheme in the table associates mode of action into broad categories based on the physiological functions affected, as an aid to
understanding symptomology, speed of action and other properties of the insecticides, and not for any resistance management purpose.
Rotations for resistance management should be based only on the numbered mode of action groups.

Table Notes:
• Inclusion of an insect icidal agent in the classification abov e does not necessari ly signify regulatory approval.
• MoA assignments will usually involv e identificat ion of the target protein responsible for the biological effect, although
groupi ngs can be made where insect icidal agent s share distinctive physiological effects and are structurally related.
• Groups 26 and 27 are unassigned at this time and hav e therefore been omitted from the table.
• An insect icidal agent with an unknown or controv ersial MoA or an unknown mode of toxici ty will be held in group ‘UN’ or
‘UNB’, ‘UNE’, ‘UNF’, ‘UNM’, ‘UNP’, ‘UNV’ as appli cable until evidence becomes avail able to enable assignment to a more
appropriat e MoA class.
.
• Act ives in groups marked with an asteri sk (*) are thought not to share a common target site and therefore may be freely
rot ated with each other unless there is reason to expect cross-resistance. These groups are 8, 13, UN, UNB, UNE, UNF,
UNM, UNP and UNV.
• Different baculov iruses that target different insect orders may be used together without compromising their resistance
management. Rotation between certain specific baculov iruses may provi de resistance management benefits for some
pests. Consul t product-specific recommendations.
• Because of documented cross-resistance between dicofol, bromopropylate and abamectin, these active ingredients shoul d
not be rot ated aft er each other in an IRM program.
14
Sub-Groups:
Sub-groups represent distinct chemical classes that are believed to hav e the same MoA but are different enough in chemical
structure or mode of interaction with the target protein that the chance of sel ection for either metabolic or target-site cross-
resistance is reduced compared to close analogs. Sub-groups may also distinguish compounds that are chemically simi lar but
known to bind differently within the target or to hav e differential sel ectivity among mul tiple targets.
The cross-resistance potential between sub-groups is higher than that between different groups, so rot ation between sub-groups
shoul d be avoided. In exceptional circumstances (i.e. where effectiv e regi stered insect icides from other mode of action groups are
unavailable) rot ation may be considered following consul tation with local expert adv ice and where cross-resistance does not exist.
These exceptions shoul d not be considered sustainable resistance management strategies, and alternative options shoul d be
sought to maintain pest susceptibilit y.
Sub-group Notes
3B Because DDT is no longer used in agriculture, this is only applicabl e for the cont rol of human disease vectors such as
mosquitoes.
4A, 4B, 4C, Al though these compounds are believed to have the same target site, current evidence indicates that the risk of
4D, 4E, 4F metabolic cross-resistance bet ween subgroups is low.
10A Hexythiazox is grouped with Clofentezine because t hey exhibit cross-resistance, even though they are structural ly
distinct. Diflovidazin has been added to this group because i t is a close analogue of Clofentezine and i s expected t o
hav e t he same mode of act ion.
11A Different Bacillus thuringiensis products that target different insect orders may be used t ogether wi thout
compromising their resist ance management. Rotat ion between cert ain speci fi c Bacillus thuringiensis microbial
products may prov ide resistance management benefits for some pest s. Consul t product-specific recommendat ions.
B.t. Crop Proteins: Where there are di fferences among the specific recept ors wi thin the midguts of target insects,
transgeni c crops containing certai n combinat ions of t he li sted proteins provide resistance management benefi ts.
20 Whil e t here is strong ev idence that Bifenazate acts on the Q o site of Mitochondrial Complex III and some Bifenazate
resistance mutations confer cross-resistance to Acequinocyl, the sites of act ion of Fl uacrypyrim and
Hydramethylnon hav e not been determined.
22A, 22B Al though these compounds are believed to have the same target site, current evidence indicates that the risk of
metabolic cross-resistance bet ween subgroups is low.
25A, 25B Al though these compounds are believed to have the same target site, current evidence indicates that the risk of
metabolic cross-resistance bet ween subgroups is low.

15
Nerve & Muscle Targets Lepidoptera - Mode of Action Respiration Targets
1. Acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors 13. Uncoupl ers of oxi dative phosphoryl-
1A: Carbamates Classification by Target Site
ation via disruption of the proton
1B: O rganophosphates gradient
2. GABA-gated chloride channel blockers Pyrroles
2A: Cyclodi ene Organochlorines 21. Mitochondrial compl ex I elect ron
2B: Phenylpyrazoles transport inhibitors
3. Sodium channel modulators 21A: METI acar acides and
3A: Pyret hrins, Pyret hroi ds insecticides (Tol fenpyrad)
4. Nicotinic acet ylcholine receptor 34. Mitochondrial compl ex III electron
(nAChR) competitive modulat ors transport inhibitors – Qi si te
4A: Neonicotinoids Fl ometoquin
4F: Pyridyl idenes
5. Nicotinic acet ylcholine receptor
Midgut Targets
(nAChR) al lost eric modulators Si te I
Spinosyns 11. Microbial disruptors of insect mi dgut
6. Glutamate-gated chloride channel membranes
(GluCl) al lost eric modulators 11A: Bacill us thuringiensis,
Av ermectins, Milbemycins 11B: Bacillus sphaericus
14. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor 31. Bacul oviruses
(nAChR) channel blockers Host-specific occluded
Nereistoxin analogues pathogenic viruses
22. Volt age-dependent sodium channel Granuloviruses,
blockers Nucleopolyhedr ov iruses
22A: Oxadiazines Midgut Targets
22B: Semicarbazones
Growth & Development Targets
28. Ryanodine receptor modul ators
Diamides Growth and Development7. Targets
Juv enile hormone receptor modulators
30. GABA-gated chloride channel 7A: Juvenile hormone analogues
allosteric modulators (Hydroprene)
Isoxazoli nes, Meta-diamides 7B: Fenoxycarb
32. Nicotini c acetylcholi ne receptor 15. Inhibitors of chit in biosy nt hesis
(nAChR) allosteric modulators Site II Unknown or uncertain MoA affecting CHS1
GS-omega/kappa HXTX-HV1a Peptide
Respiration Targets Benzoylureas
Azadirachtin, Pyridalyl, Beauveria
37. Vesicular acetyl chol ine t ransporter 18. Ecdysone receptor agonist s
(VAChT) inhibitor bassiana, Burkholderia spp,
Paecilomyces fumosoroseus Diacylhydrazi nes
Oxazosulfyl
16
Nerve & Muscle Targets Aphids, Whiteflies, Planthoppers Respiration Targets
1. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors and Leafhoppers - Mode of Action
1A: Carbamates Classification by Target Site 12. Inhibitors of mitochondrial ATP
1B: Organophosphates synthesis
2. GABA-gated chloride channel blockers 12A: Difenthiuron
2A: Cyclodiene Organochlorines 21. Mitochondrial compl ex I
2B: Phenylpyrazoles
electron transport inhibitors
3. Sodium channel modulators
3A: Pyrethrins, Pyrethroids MoA Planthoppe rs 21A: METI acaracides and
Aphids Whiteflies
Group Leafhopper s insecticides (Pyridaben,
4. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR)
1A X X X
competitive modulators Tol fenpyrad)
1B X X X
4A: Neonicotinoids 34. Mitochondrial compl ex III electron
4C: Sulfoximines 2A X X X
transport inhibitors – Qi si te
4D: Butenolides 2B X
Fl ometoquin
4E: Mesoionics 3A X X X
4F: Pyridylidenes 4A X X X
9. Chordotonal organ TRPV channel modulators 4C X X X Growth & Development Targets
9B: Pyridine azomethine derivatives 4D X X X
9D: Pyropenes 4E X
7. Juvenile hormone receptor
22. Voltage-dependent sodium channel blockers 4F X modulators
22A: Oxadiazines 7A X X 7A: Kinoprene
28. Ryanodine receptor modulators 7C X 7C: Pyri proxy fen
Diamides (Cyantraniliprole) 9B X X X
15. Inhibitors of chit in biosy nt hesis,
29. Chordotonal organ nicotinamidase inhibitors 9D X X X
Flonicamid affecting CHS1
12 A X X
Benzoylureas
30. GABA-gated chloride channel allosteric 15 X
modulators 16 X X 16. Inhibitors of chit in biosy nt hesis,
Isoxazolines 21 A X type 1
32. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) 22 A X Buprofezin
allosteric modulators Site II 23 X X 23. Inhibitors of acetyl-CoA carboxyl ase
GS-omega/kappa HXTX-HV1a 28 X X X Tetronic & Tetramic acid
Peptide 29 X X X der ivatives
36. Chordotonal modulators – undefined 30 X
target site 32 X X The table lists the main mode of action
Pyridazine pyrazolecarboxamides 34 X groups for the control of aphids, whiteflies
37. Vesicular acetylcholine transporter and hoppers. However, the availability may
36 X X X
(VAChT) inh ib itor differ regionally due to registration status.
Oxazo sulfyl 37 X
17
Nerve & Muscle Targets Respiration Targets
Mites - Mode of Action
1. Acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors 12. Inhibitors of mitochondrial ATP
1A: Carbamates Classification by Target Site synthesis
1B: O rganophosphates 12A: Difenthiuron
2. GABA-gated chloride channel blockers 12B: Organotin mi ticides
2A: Cyclodi ene Organochlorines 12C: Propargite
3. Sodium channel modulators 13. Uncoupl ers of oxi dative phosphoryl-
3A: Pyret hrins, Pyret hroi ds ation via disruption of the proton
5. Nicotinic acet ylcholine receptor gradient
(nAChR) allosteric modulators – site I Chlorfenapyr
Spinosyns 20. Mitochondrial compl ex III electron
6. Gl ut amate-gated chloride channel transport inhibitors – Qo sit e
(GluCl) allosteric modulators 20B: Acequi nocyl
Av ermectins, Milbemycins 20C: Fl uacrypyr im
20D: Bifenazate
19. Octopamine receptor agonists
Amitraz 21. Mitochondrial compl ex I elect ron
32. Nicotini c acetylcholi ne receptor transport inhibitors
(nAChR) allosteric modulators Site II 21A: METI acar icides
GS-omega/kappa HXTX-HV1a 25. Mitochondrial compl ex II electron
Peptide transport inhibitors
30. GABA-gated chloride channel 25A: Cyenopyrafen, Cyflumetofen
Growth & Development Targets 25B: Pyflubumide
allosteric modulators
Isoxazoli nes 10. Mite growt h inhi bi tors affecting CHS1 34. Mitochondrial compl ex III electron
10A: Clofentezi ne, Diflovidazi n transport inhibitors – Qi si te
33. Cal cium-activated potassium channel
Hexy thiazox Fl om etoquin
(KCa2) modulators
10B: Etoxazole
Acynonapyr
15. Inhibitors of chit in biosy nt hesis
affecting CHS1 Unknown or uncertain MoA
Benzoylureas
Benzoximate, Chinomet hi onat,
23. Inhibitors of acetyl-CoA carboxyl ase
Dicofol
Tetronic & Tetramic acid deri vatives

18
 Mosquitoes - Mode of Action
Classification by Target Site

Nerve & Muscle Targets (Larvae) Growth & Development Targets (Larvae)
1. Acetyl cholinesterase (AChE)
inhibitors 7. Juv enile hormone receptor modulators
1B: O rganophosphates 7A: Juvenile hormone analogues
5. Nicotinic acet ylcholine receptor 7C: Pyriproxyfen
(nAChR) al lost eric modulators – site I 15. Inhibitors of chit in biosy nt hesis,
affecting CHS1
Spinosyns
Benzoylureas
Unknown or uncertain MoA
UNM Non-specific mechanical and Midgut Targets (Larvae)
physical di sruptors 11. Microbial disruptors of insect mi dgut
Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes
11A: Bacill us thuringiensis,
11B: Bacillus sphaericus
Nerve & Muscle Targets (Adults)
1. Acetyl cholinesterase (AChE)
inhibitors Growth & Development Targets (Adults)
1A: Carbamat es
1B: O rganophosphates 7. Juv enile hormone receptor modulators
3. Sodium channel modulators 7C: Pyri proxy fen
3A: Pyrethrins, Py rethroids
4. Nicotinic acet ylcholine receptor Respiration Targets (Adults)
(nAChR) competit ive modulators
4A: Neonicotinoids 13. Uncoupl ers of oxi dative phosphoryl-
4D: Butenoli des ation via disruption of the proton
30. GABA-gated chloride channel gradient
Insecticide MoA groups listed on the poster are Pyrroles
allosteric modulators only those that have received WHO Pre-
Meta-diamides, Isoxazolines Qualification listing for at least one example.
19
 Active Ingredients (Alphabetical Order) with MoA Classification: INSECTICIDES / ACARICIDES
1,3-dichloropropene 8A bet a-Cypermethrin 3A Chlormephos 1B Diafenthiuron 12A
Abamectin 6 Bifenazate 20D Chloropicrin 8B Diat omaceous eart h UNM
Acephate 1B Bifenthrin 3A Chlorpyrifos 1B Diazinon 1B
Acequinocyl 20B Bioallethrin 3A Chlorpyrifos-methyl 1B Dichlorvos/ DDV P 1B
Acetamiprid 4A Bioallethrin S- Chromafenozide 18 Dicofol UN
cyclopenteny l isomer 3A
Acrinathrin 3A Clitori a ternatea Dicrotophos 1B
Acynonapyr 33 Bioresmethri n 3A UNE
extract Dicloromezotiaz 4E
Afidopyropen 9D Bistri fl uron 15 Clofentezine 10A Diflovidazin 10A
Akanthomy ces Borax 8D Clothianidin 4A Diflubenzuron 15
muscarius Ve6 UNF
Bori c acid 8D Coumaphos 1B Dimethoate 1B
Al anycarb 1A Broflanilide 30 Cry olite 8C Dimethylv inphos 1B
Al di carb 1A Bromopropylate UN Cyanide 24B Dimpropy ridaz 36
Al let hrin 3A Buprofezin 16 Cyanophos 1B Dinotefuran 4A
alpha-Cypermethrin 3A Burkholderia spp. UNB Cyantrani liprole 28 Disodi um octaborat e 8D
Al uminium phosphide 24A Butocarboxim 1A Cycloprothrin 3A Disul fot on 1B
Amitraz 19 Cadusafos 1B
Anticarsia gemmatalis Cydia pomonell a GV 31 DNOC 13
MNPV 31 Calcium cy anide 24B Cyenopyrafen 25A d-trans Al let hrin 3A
Azadi rachtin UN Calcium phosphi de 24A
Cyflumetofen 25A Emamectin benzoate 6
Azamethiphos 1B Carbaryl 1A
Cyfluthri n 3A Empent hrin [(EZ)-(1R)-
Azinphos-ethyl 1B Carbofuran 1A 3A
Cyhalothrin 3A isomers]
Azinphos-methyl 1B Carbosulfan 1A
Cyhexatin 12B Endosulfan 2A
Azocyclot in 12B Cartap hy drochloride 14
Cypermethrin 3A EPN 1B
Bacillus thuringiensis 11A Chenopodi um
ambrosioides near UNE Cyphenot hrin (1R)- Esfenvalerate 3A
Bacillus sphaericus 11B trans-isomers] 3A
ambrosioides extract Ethiofencarb 1A
Beauveria bassiana Cyproflanilide 30
strains UNF Chinomethionat UN Ethion 1B
Chlorantraniliprole 28 Cyromazine 17 Ethiprole 2B
Bendi ocarb 1A
Chlordane 2A d-cis-trans Al let hrin 3A Ethoprophos 1B
Benfuracarb 1A
Bensultap 14 Chlorethoxyfos 1B Dazomet 8F Etofenprox 3A
Benzoximat e UN Chlorfenapyr 13 DDT 3B Etoxazole 10B
Benzpyrimoxan UN Chlorfenvinphos 1B Del tamet hrin 3A Famphur 1B
bet a-Cyfluthri n 3A Chlorfluazuron 15 Demeton-S-methyl 1B
20
 Active Ingredients (Alphabetical Order) with MoA Classification: INSECTICIDES / ACARICIDES
Fatty acid monoesters Hal ofenozide 18 Metarhizi um Parathion 1B
with gl ycerol or brunneun strain F52 UNF
UNE Heliocoverpa armi gera Parathion-methyl 1B
propanediol 31 Methamidophos 1B
NPV Permethri n 3A
Fenamiphos 1B Methidathion 1B
Hept enophos 1B Phenothrin [(1R)-
Fenazaquin 21A Methiocarb 1A 3A
Hexaflumuron 15 trans- isomer]
Fenbutatin oxide 12B Methomyl 1A
Hexythiazox 10A Phenthoate 1B
Fenitrothion 1B Methoprene 7A
Hydramethylnon 20A Phorate 1B
Fenobucarb 1A Methoxychlor 3B Phosalone 1B
Hydroprene 7A
Fenmezoditiaz 4E Imicyafos 1B Methoxyfenozide 18 Phosmet 1B
Fenoxycarb 7B Imidacl oprid 4A Methyl bromide 8A Phosphamidon 1B
Fenpropat hrin 3A Imiprothrin 3A Metolcarb 1A Phosphine 24A
Fenpyroximat e 21A Indoxacarb 22A Methyl isocyanate 8F Phoxim 1B
Fenthion 1B Isocylcoseram 30 Mevinphos 1B Piri micarb 1A
Fenvalerate 3A Isofenphos 1B Milbemectin 6 Piri miphos- methyl 1B
Fi pronil 2B Isoprocarb 1A Mineral Oil UNM Polydimet hy lsi loxane
Fl oni camid 29 Isopropyl O- (methoxy UNM
Monocrotophos 1B (PDMS)
Fl ometoquin 34 -aminothio-phosphory l) 1B
sali cylat e Naled 1B Potassium cyanide 24B
Fl uacrypyrim 20C Neem Oil UNE Prallethrin 3A
Isoxathion 1B
Fl ubendimide 28 Nicoti ne 4B Profenofos 1B
Kadethrin 3A
Fl ucy cloxuron 15 Nitenpyram 4A Propargit e 12C
Kinoprene 7A
Fl ucy thrinat e 3A Nonanoic acid UNE
lambda-Cyhalothrin 3A Propetamphos 1B
Fl ufenoxuron 15 Novaluron 15
Lepimectin 6 Propoxur 1A
Fl umethrin 3A Ledprona 35 Noviflumuron 15 Prothiofos 1B
Fl upyradifurone 4D Lime sulfur UN Omet hoate 1B Pyflubumide 25B
Fl uxametamide 30 Lufenuron 15 Oxamyl 1A Pymetrozi ne 9B
Fl upyrimi n 4F Malathion 1B Oxazosulfyl 37 Pyraclofos 1B
gamma-Cyhalothrin 3A Mancozeb UN Oxydemeton-methyl 1B Pyrethri ns (pyrethrum) 3A
GS-omega/kappa HXTX Mecarbam 1B
-Hv1a 32 Paecilomyces Pyri daben 21A
Metaflumizone 22B fumosoroseus Apopka UNF
Hal fenprox 3A strain 97 Pyri dalyl UN
Metam 8F

21
Active Ingredients (Alphabetical Order) with MoA Classification: INSECTICIDES / ACARICIDES
Pyri daphenthion 1B Sulfotep 1B Tetranili prole 28 Triazamate 1A
Pyri fl uquinazon 9B Sulfoxaflor 4C Thaumatoti bi a Triazophos 1B
Pyri midifen 21A Sulfur UN 31
leucotreta GV Trichlorfon 1B
Pyri proxyfen 7C Sulfurami d 13 theta-cypermethrin 3A Triflumuron 15
Quinalphos 1B Sulfury l fluoride 8C Thi aclopri d 4A Triflumezopyrim 4E
Resmethrin 3A Tart ar emet ic 8E Thi amethoxam 4A
Rotenone (Derris) 21B tau-Fl uv alinate 3A Trimethacarb 1A
Thi ocyclam 14
Sabadill a extract UNE Tebufenozide 18 Vami dot hi on 1B
Thi odi carb 1A
Si lafluofen 3A Tebufenpyrad 21A Wolbachia pipient is
Thi ofanox 1A UNB
Sodium borate 8D Tebupirimfos 1B (Zap)
Thi ometon 1B
Sodium cyani de 24B Teflubenzuron 15 XMC 1A
Thi osultap-sodium 14
Sodium metaborat e 8D Tefluthri n 3A Xylyl carb 1A
Tolfenpyrad 21A
Spidoxamat 23 Temephos 1B
Tral omethrin 3A zeta-Cypermethrin 3A
Spinetoram 5 Terbufos 1B
Transfluthrin 3A Zi nc phosphide 24A
Spinosad 5 Tetrachlorvinphos 1B
Spirodiclofen 23 Tetradifon 12D
Spiromesifen 23 Tetramet hrin 3A
Spiropidion 23 Tetramet hrin [(1R)-
3A
Spirotetramat 23 isomers]

22
 Nematicide MoA Classification
This is the first edition to include the newly created Nematicide Mode of Action
Classification Scheme. The development of this scheme enables visibility of the modes
of action available to control plant-parasitic nematodes. Additionally, the numbering
scheme allows clarity of product labelling, supporting the principles of rotation of
mode-of-action for resistance management. See the IRAC International website for
further information (https://irac-online.org/teams/nematodes/) – including a poster
and a statement on nematicide resistance risk.

23
 Nematicide Mode of Action Classification Scheme (Version 2.2)
Class or IRAC/FRAC
Main Group/Primary Site of Action Active Ingredients
Exemplifying active Group

N-1 Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors Al di carb, Benfuracarb, Carbofuran,

A Carbamates Carbosulfan, Oxamyl, Thi ocarb IRAC: 1A
(Only major representatives shown)
B Organophosphates Cadusafos, Ethoprophos, Fenamiphos, IRAC: 1B
Fosthiazate, Imicyafos, Phorate, Terbufos

N-2 Glutamate-gated chloride channel Av ermectins Abamectin IRAC: 6

(GluCl) allosteric modulators

N-3 Mitochondrial complex II electron Pyridinyl-ethy l benzamides;

transport inhibitors. Succinate Phenethy l pyridineami des Cyclobutrifluram, Fluopyram FRAC: 7
-coenzyme Q reductase.

N-4 Inhibitors of acetyl-CoA carboxylase Tetronic and Tetramic acid Spirotetramat IRAC: 23
derivativ es

N-UN Compounds of unknown or uncertain Various chemistries Fluazaindoli zine, Fluensulfone, Furfural ,
mode of action Iprodione

N-UNX Compounds of unknown or uncertain Volatile sulphur generator Carbon Disulfide, Dimethyl Disulfide
mode of action: Presumed multi-site (DMDS)
inhibitor
Carbon disulfide liberator Sodium Tetrathi ocarbonate

Al kyl hali des Methyl Bromide, Methyl Iodide

IRAC: 8
Halogenated hydrocarbon 1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP), 1,3-
Dichloropropene, Ethylene Dibromide

Chloropicrin Chloropicrin

Methyl isothiocyanate Al lyl Isothiocyanate, Dazomet, Metam

generator Potassi um, Metam Sodium

24
 Main Group/Primary Site of Action Active Agents

N-UNB Bacterial agents (non-Bt) of unknown Bacillus spp. e.g. firmus, subtilis
or uncertain mode of action
Burkhol deria spp. e.g. rinojensi s A396
(Only major representatives shown and
species with proven nematicidal activ ity) Pasteuria spp. e.g. penetrans, nishizawae

Pseudomonas spp. e.g. chlor oraphi s, fluorescens, oryzihabitans strai n SYM23945

Streptomy ces spp. e.g. lydicus, dicklowii, albogriseolus, strai n SYM00257

N-UNF Fungal agents of unknown or uncertain Actinomyces spp., e.g. streptococcus

mode of action
Arthrobotrys spp. e.g. oligospora
(Only major representatives shown and
species with proven nematicidal activ ity) Aspergillus spp. e.g. niger

Muscodor spp. e.g. albus

Myrothecium spp. e.g. verrucaria

Pochoni a spp. e.g. chlamydosporia

Paecilomyces spp. e.g. carneus, fumosoroseus, lil acinum (sy n. Purpureocill ium lil acinus),

Trichoderma spp. e.g. harzianum, v irens, atroviride, viride

N-UNE Botanical or animal derived agents Azadirachtin, Camellia Seed Cake, Essential oils, Garli c extract, Pongamia oil, Quillaja
including synthetic, extracts and saponaria extract, Chitin, Terpenes
unrefined oils with unknown or
uncertain mode of action

(Only major representatives shown)

Targeted Physiology: Nerve & Muscle Growth & Development Respiration Unknown or Non-specific
25
 Nematodes - Mode of Action
Classification by Target Site

Nerve & Muscle Targets Growth & Development Targets

N-1 Acetyl cholinesterase (AChE)
inhibitors N-4 Inhibit ors of acetyl-CoA carboxyl ase
1A: Carbamat es Tetronic & Tetramic acid deri vatives
1B: O rganophosphates
a b
N-2 Glutamate-gated chloride channel
(GluCl) al lost eric modulators
Av ermectins Unknown or uncertain MoA
N-UN Compounds with unknown
Mode of Action
c d
Respiration Targets
N-UNX Presumed multi-site inhibitors
N-3 Mit ochondri al complex II electron
transport inhibitors. Succinate- N-UNB Bacterial agents (non-Bt)
coenzyme Q reductase.
Fl uopyram, Cyclobutrifluram N-UNF Fungal agents
e f
N-UNE Botanical or ani mal derived
agent s i ncl uding sy nt hetic,
a – Root-knot nematode J2, b – Root-knot
extracts and unrefined oil s
nematode J3’s in root galls, c – SCN J2 and egg,
d – PCN cyst, eggs and J2’s , e – Dagger
nematode, f – Root lesion nematode, g – Spiral
nematode, h – Ring nematode
g h
26
 Active Ingredients (Alphabetical Order) with MoA Classification: NEMATICIDES
1,2-Dibromo-3- Carbon Di sulfide N-UNX Furfural N-UN Phorate N-1B
N-UNX
chloropropane (DBCP) Carbosulfan N-1A Garlic extract N-UNE Pochonia spp. N-UNF
1,3-Dichloropropene N-UNX Chitin N-UNE Imicyafos N-1B Pongamia oil N-UNE
Abamectin N-2 Chloropicrin N-UNX Iprodi one N-UN Pseudomonas spp. N-UNB
Actinomyces spp. N-UNF Cyclobutrifluram N-3 Metam Potassium N-UNX Quill aja saponaria
Al di carb N-1A Dazomet N-UNX N-UNE
Metam Sodium N-UNX extract
Al lyl isothiocyanate N-UNX Dimethyl Disulfide Methyl Bromide N-UNX Sodium
N-UNX N-UNX
Ar throbotrys spp. N-UNF (DMDS) Methyl Iodi de tetrathiocarbonate
Aspergi llus spp. N-UNF Essent ial oils N-UNE N-UNX
(Iodomethane) Spirotetramat N-4
Azadi rachtin N-UNE Ethoprophos N-1B Muscodor spp. N-UNF
Bacillus spp. N-UNB Ethylene Dibromide N-UNX Myrothecium spp. N-UNF Streptomyces spp. N-UNB
Benfuracarb N-1A Fenamiphos N-1B Oxamyl N-1A Terbufos N-1B
Burkholderia spp. N-UNB Fl uazaindolizine N-UN Purpureocilli um
Cadusafos N-1B Fl uensul fone N-UN lil acinum (syn. N-UNF Terpenes N-UNE
Camellia Seed Cake N-UNE Fl uopyram N-3 Paecilomyces lil acinus)
Trichoderma spp. N-UNF
Carbofuran N-1A Fosthiazate N-1B Past euria spp. N-UNB

Table Notes:
• Inclusion of a nematode control agent in the table abov e does not necessari ly signify regulatory approval.
• The list is not aimed at being comprehensi ve but gi ves key representatives by group.
• N-UNB and N-UNF includes only species with proven nematicidal activity.

27
Photograph Acknowledgements:

Page 16: N. Armes, BASF

Page 17: F. Haile Corteva Agriscience, S. Bauer USDA, A. McCaffery
Page 18: Syngenta
Page 19: Syngenta & J. Gathany, CDC
Page 26: Corteva Agrisci ence, T. Thoden various nemat odes & R.M. Dickenson SCN nemat ode
Photograph det ails and credi ts are accurat e t o the best of our knowledge

28
 Further information is available from the IRAC website at:
www.irac-online.org

or by email at:
[email protected]

IRAC Insecticide/Acaricide IRAC Nematicide Mode of

Mode of Action Action Classification
Classification

Edition 11.4, May 2025

Based on Insecticide MoA Clas sification Scheme, Vers ion 11.4 and
Nematicide MoA Classification Version 2.2
visit us @ irac-online.org