What is Bromethalin primarily used as?

Bromethalin is primarily used as an acute rodenticide, which means it is designed to kill rodents quickly after ingestion. This compound affects the nervous system of rodents, leading to increased energy expenditure and ultimately death, typically within a few days. Unlike anticoagulant rodenticides that cause death through the inhibition of blood coagulation, bromethalin acts more rapidly and can be lethal after a single feeding, making it a highly effective option in controlling rodent populations. Its mode of action involves disrupting normal cellular energy production, which leads to the effects seen in treated animals.

Insecticides, anticoagulant rodenticides, and fumigants serve different purposes and have distinct modes of action that do not align with the primary use of bromethalin as a quick-acting rodenticide. Understanding the specific uses and characteristics of different pest control agents is crucial for effective pest management strategies.