carbamates

views updated Jun 08 2018

carbamates Salts or esters of carbamic acid, H2NCOOH, or their derivatives.They include various insecticides, such as aldicarb, methiocarb, and propoxur. These are active against a wide range of insects upon contact or ingestion; they work by inhibiting cholinesterase enzymes, which are essential for nervous system function. Hence carbamates are also toxic to other animals, including humans. However, their persistence in the environment is relatively low.

carbamates

views updated May 17 2018

carbamates A group of salts and esters of carbamic acid (H2N.COOH) various members of which are used as insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. They have a low toxicity to mammals, although some are harmful to non-target insects and fish, and they break down rapidly in the soil.

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