Question

Pyrethrin is a common ingredient of
A. Mosquito coils
B. Fly sprays
C. Mosquito mats
D. All of the above

Answer 1

Hint: Pyrethrins are commonly used insecticides in the home. They have a quick “knockdown” for insects and have a low potential to produce toxicity in humans. The most significant toxicity of pyrethrins is allergy.

Complete step-by-step answer:
Pyrethrins are a combination of six chemicals that are toxic to insects. They are naturally present in some chrysanthemum flowers. They are often used in the home and garden to control fleas, mosquitoes, moths, flies, ants, and other pests. Pyrethrins are usually separated from the flowers. Though, they usually contain impurities from the flower. Thus, crushed flowers are called pyrethrum powder. Pyrethrins were registered for use in pesticides since the 1950s. They were used as models to generate longer-lasting chemicals known as pyrethroids, which are man-made. At present, pyrethrins are found in over 2,000 registered pesticide products. Large number of these are used in and around buildings and on crops and ornamental plants. Others are used on specific pets and livestock. Pyrethrins are usually found in sprays, foggers (bug bombs), dusts, and pet shampoos.

Therefore the correct answer is Option D.
Note: Pyrethrins are almost non-toxic to birds but very poisonous to honeybees. Though, some of the risks to pollinators are limited by their slight repellent activity and a quick breakdown. Pyrethrins are very toxic to fish and also highly toxic to shrimp, lobster, oysters, and aquatic insects. This may be partly because of their higher toxicity at lower temperatures. Evidence shows that long-term exposure to pyrethrins can cause reproductive effects in fish and aquatic insects.