Laboratory studies indicate metaflumizone, formulated as a suspension concentrate (SC), was very active against Lygus. However, field trails against the two major species of Lygus, L. lineolaris and L. hesperus, indicated only moderate control (60 – 70%).

Comparisons of metaflumizone formulations (SC and emulsifiable concentrate (EC)) in cotton resulted in superior control of L. lineolaris with the EC. Lygus control with metaflumizone (280 gai/ha) was comparable to acephate (560 – 1120 gai/ha), Mortality was slower to occur than with acephate, but cotton yields were equivalent. The conclusion was Lygus damage to the cotton had ceased following the application of metaflumizone.

As part of a Lygus Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program, treatments including metaflumizone at 280 gai/ha were: metaflumizone fb acephate fb dicrotophos, metaflumizone + cyfluthrin fb acephate fb dicrotophos, thiamethoxam fb metaflumizone, acephate fb metaflumizone + cyfluthrin. The standard was thiamethoxam fb dicrotophos fb acephate. Yields taken from the various Lygus programs containing metaflumizone were comparable to the standard.

Metaflumizone is being developed as part of a Lygus Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. Metaflumizone offers a new mode of action, resistance management, and less impact to beneficial insects.