Question

What is the mode of action of activated clay?

• A. It causes protein precipitation
• B. It inhibits impulse conduction
• C. It creates spaces, leading to moisture depletion
• D. It inactivates respiratory enzymes

Answer 1

Answer:

C. It creates spaces, leading to moisture depletion

• Physical poison - The pesticide or toxicant will not react chemically but kill the insect either by asphyxiation or desiccation.

• Mineral oil closes the spiracles and causes asphyxiation. So mineral oil is used for soft bodied insects like aphids.

• Activated clay exerts a physical effect on wax monolayer and create spaces so that depletion of moisture in insect cell occurs. Activated clay is used in storage pest management.

• Eg: Mineral oil, Inert dusts - Ash, silicagel, activated clay.