Carbofuran
Definition
A carbamate insecticide (N-methyl carbamate group) that inhibits acetylcholinesterase. Marketed as Furadan; highly toxic at low doses; documented in large-scale raptor and carnivore poisoning in Africa, the UK, and elsewhere.
- Class
- Carbamate insecticide (N-methyl carbamate)
- Mechanism
- Acetylcholinesterase inhibition
- Trade name
- Furadan
- Documented use
- Raptor and carnivore poisoning in Africa, the UK, and elsewhere
Common questions
Why is carbofuran particularly associated with wildlife poisoning cases?+
Its high toxicity at very small doses means a bait laced with a small quantity can kill large predators and scavengers, and it has been widely, sometimes illegally, used to target species perceived as threats to livestock or game.
How is carbofuran poisoning confirmed in a wildlife forensic case?+
Analysts typically test stomach contents, tissue, or bait remains for the parent compound and its metabolites using chromatographic methods, since acetylcholinesterase inhibition alone is not specific enough to confirm carbofuran over other cholinesterase-inhibiting pesticides.
Is carbofuran still legally available in the regions where it has caused poisonings?+
Its regulatory status varies by jurisdiction and has tightened over time in several countries due to non-target poisoning concerns, so its continued appearance in cases often involves stockpiled, illegally imported, or otherwise restricted product.
Related terms
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- Cholinesterase Inhibition
- The biochemical mechanism of organophosphate and carbamate toxicity: inhibition of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase prevents breakdown of acetylcholine at synapses, producing overstimulation of...
- LC-MS
- Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry: the confirmatory analytical method for pesticide residues in biological matrices. Separates compounds by chromatography, then identifies them by mass-to-charge...
- Organophosphate
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- PAX Field Kit
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