Japanese beetles are not native to Washington state and outside of their natural ecosystem. Japanese beetle populations increase quickly if not controlled. Japanese beetles don't bite or spread disease to humans; however, they are invasive insects that feed on over 300 plants. Adult beetles eat the leaves of plants, while the grubs (larvae) are found in the soil and eat grass roots. Japanese beetles are a serious pest for both residents and the agricultural industry.
In a multi-year effort to remove Japanese beetles to protect Washington's environment and economy, the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) plans to treat areas in Yakima, Benton, Franklin, and South King counties in spring and summer. The treatment involves applying liquid insecticide, Acelepryn, to foliage, bark, and soil. The granular version of this insecticide, Acelepryn G, may also be applied to soil in limited circumstances. Both Acelepryn and Acelepryn G are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use in residential and commercial areas.
Visit WSDA’s Japanese beetle page to learn more and identify if you live in a treatment area.
Note: Property owners must give their consent to have their property treated by WSDA.
How to Stop the Spread of Japanese Beetles
Washington state uses an integrated pest management approach to reduce the spread of Japanese beetles. This includes:
- Monitoring populations with traps that attract Japanese beetles.
- Teaching homeowners how to identify and report Japanese beetle sightings.
- Using the least toxic methods available to treat beetles - with property owner consent.
- Monitoring a quarantine, when possible, to prevent spread of Japanese beetle.
Washington State University Extension also teaches homeowners how to self-treat Japanese beetle detections. See WSU Extension's Japanese beetle identification and treatment handout (PDF).
What are Acelepryn and Acelepryn G?
Acelepryn is a liquid insecticide that is sprayed on turf and ornamental shrubs and trees. It is used for control of Japanese beetles in lawns and landscaped areas on or around residential, commercial, and institutional properties. Acelepryn G is the granular form of Acelepryn that is spread on the ground and watered in. When exposed to water, Acelepryn G absorbs into the soil.
These products kill both larvae and adult Japanese beetles when eaten or touched. Acelepryn is also used to control other insects like grubs, caterpillars, and weevils.
Applications of Acelepryn and Acelepryn G in areas including turfgrass on athletic fields, parks, playgrounds, and lawns, and on flower beds and bushes planted around homes, schools, and businesses are approved by the EPA.
What ingredients are in Acelepryn?
Acelepryn and Acelepryn G are commercial insecticides with the active ingredient chlorantraniliprole. Acelepryn contains very small amounts of two preservatives (1,2-benzisothiazol-3(2H)-one; and bronopol). Although some people are sensitive to preservatives, allergic reactions have not been reported in people exposed to Acelepryn. Acelepryn G contains limestone clay and an ingredient that binds the active ingredient to the clay.
The EPA reviewed Acelepryn and Acelepryn G and placed these pesticides in the reduced-risk category, which means they pose less of a risk to human health and the environment than other pesticides used for the same purpose.
What are the health concerns of Acelepryn and Acelepryn G?
When used as directed, Acelepryn and Acelepryn G are not dangerous for people. The EPA also concluded that these insecticides are not dangerous to domestic animals, including dogs, when applied according to label instructions. Our toxicologists have reviewed the active ingredient in these pesticides and concluded that they pose a very low concern for health. The active ingredient, chlorantraniliprole, has not been found to cause allergic reactions.
No symptoms or illness have been reported following applications of Acelepryn or Acelepryn G in Washington state.
The EPA did not review potential health risks associated with Acelepryn or Acelepryn G use in home vegetable gardens or home orchards because these insecticides are not intended for those settings. However, the EPA approved the active ingredient for use in a wide range of commercial food crops such as leafy vegetables, grapes, cucurbits (ground vegetables), potatoes, rice, pome fruit (apples and pears), and stone fruit (peaches and plums), we do not expect a health risk to occur in these scenarios.
These insecticides are not a risk to mammals, birds, or fish when used according to label instructions. However, the active ingredient, chlorantraniliprole, is harmful to aquatic invertebrates such as crayfish and water fleas. These insecticides should not be applied near bodies of water to prevent runoff in those areas. Learn more about how to prevent runoff when using pesticides.
Public Health Recommendations
Acelepryn and Acelepryn G have an excellent safety record when used as directed. If you're concerned, you can limit direct contact with these ingredients by following these tips:
- Avoid treatment areas and keep pets inside until the treatment has dried.
- If you come into contact with the insecticide, wash the affected skin with soap and water.
- If your clothes come into contact with the insecticide, remove the clothing and wash it before wearing again.
- Eating produce grown in Acelepryn- or Acelepryn G-treated soil is not expected to cause health effects.
Talk to your health care provider if you have health concerns related to Acelepryn or Acelepryn G.
More Information
Japanese Beetle, WSDA - Learn more about identification, sign up for free beetle treatments, homeowner self-treatment options, how to report a sighting, and how to stay informed.
Japanese Beetle/Public Safety of Acelepryn Information (YouTube)
La Seguridad de Acelepryny la salud del público 2023 | Spanish (YouTube)
Content Source: Pesticide Program