Insecticides

1. Target species: which insect do we want to eliminate?

The first thing we need to know before choosing an insecticide is exactly which insect we want to control or eliminate. This insect is referred to as the target species.

Correctly identifying the insect is essential because not all products are 100% effective against all types of insects.

It is important to understand that all insecticides contain active ingredients that kill insects, but they are not always 100% efficient in every situation.

For example, an insecticide formulated for cockroaches may not work well against the Asian hornet, either due to the spray range or because, although its active ingredients can eliminate the insect, they are not as efficient. A product designed for flying insects may be less effective against ants, meaning you may need to use more insecticide than necessary.

Some insecticides focus on specific stages of the life cycle, such as larvae or adults.

If we do not correctly identify the target species, we risk purchasing an unsuitable insecticide, which can result in wasted product and persistence of the infestation.

2. Treatment objective: prevention or elimination

Defining the objective before choosing the product helps select the appropriate formulation and strength. For example:

• If your objective is to prevent the appearance of pests, a low-concentration or long-lasting product may be more appropriate.
• If the goal is to eliminate an active infestation, an insecticide with a stronger and more immediate effect will likely be necessary.

3. Format: method of insecticide application

The choice of format depends not only on the insect and the surface but also on safety and usage conditions. For example, aerosols may be more convenient for occasional indoor use, while liquids may require specific sprayers.

Another key aspect is the format of the insecticide—that is, how the product is prepared and how it is applied. Each format has advantages and limitations, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your situation and the type of pest.

The most common insecticide formats are:

• Spray (aerosol): easy to apply on surfaces and access points. Spray insecticides are ideal for flying or crawling insects when a direct and immediate application is desired.
• Gel: especially used for ants and cockroaches. Gel insecticide is placed in strategic points and consumed by the insect.
• Liquid: often diluted in water and then sprayed. Liquid insecticides allow treatment of large areas.
• Powder or granules: useful for outdoor areas, soil, cracks, and hard-to-reach places.
• Emulsifiable liquid: concentrated formulation that is mixed with water before application.

4. Insecticide composition: concentration and active ingredients

Each insecticide contains one or more active ingredients, which are the compounds that actually act on the insect.

The composition and concentration of these active ingredients determine: effectiveness, mode of action, specificity, and potential impact on human health and non-target animals.

Some household insecticides use chemical active ingredients such as permethrin, tetramethrin, cypermethrin, and other synthetic or semi-synthetic substances that directly attack the insect’s nervous system.

There are also insecticides that use milder or biological ingredients, such as plant extracts or natural oils, which work in a less aggressive but still effective way in certain cases.

It is important to look not only at the presence of these active ingredients but also at their percentage (%) in the product. Products with higher concentrations typically have a stronger effect, but they may also require greater precautions during use and are not always necessary for minor infestations.