Imazapyr

Imazapyr is a non-selective herbicide used for the control of a broad range of weeds including annual and perennial grasses, broad-leaved weeds and woody plants. It is used in non-crop areas such as roadsides, industrial sites and railways. It is also used for the control of emergent and floating aquatic plants.

Chemistry[edit | edit source]

Imazapyr is an imidazolinone herbicide. It works by inhibiting the production of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are essential for plant growth. This is achieved by inhibiting the enzyme acetolactate synthase (ALS).

Usage[edit | edit source]

Imazapyr is used in a variety of settings, including agriculture, non-crop areas, and aquatic environments. It is often used in combination with other herbicides to increase its spectrum of control. In agriculture, it is used for pre- and post-emergence control of a wide range of weeds in oilseed rape, sunflower, soybean, peanut, cotton, rice, and maize crops.

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

Imazapyr is highly soluble in water and can leach into groundwater. It is also highly persistent in soil, with a half-life of up to a year in some conditions. This can lead to residual activity in soil, affecting non-target plants and potentially leading to biodiversity loss.

Health Effects[edit | edit source]

Exposure to imazapyr can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Long-term exposure can lead to more serious health effects, including damage to the liver and kidneys.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

In the European Union, imazapyr is not approved for use in pesticides. In the United States, it is classified as a General Use Pesticide (GUP) by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).