Insect growth regulator
- Pronunciation
- /in-SEKT growt reg-yoo-lay-ter/
- Category
- Control
- Singular
- Insect growth regulator
- Plural
- Insect growth regulators
Definition
Chemicals that disrupt the normal growth and development of insects by interfering with their hormonal processes.
Etymology
From 'insect' and 'growth regulator'.
Example
Insect growth regulators are often used to control insect pests in agriculture.
Related Terms
- Juvenile hormone analogues
- Chitin synthesis inhibitors
Usage Notes
Insect growth regulators are considered to be reduced-risk tools because they have low toxicity to mammals. They can disrupt the normal development of insects, leading to death or sterility.