Emamectin benzoate (Proclaim) is an avermectin class insecticide developed for the control of lepidopteron insects. This class of pesticide consists of homologous semi-synthetic macrolides that are derived from the natural fermentation products of Streptomyces bacteria. It kills insects by disrupting neurotransmitters, causing irreversible paralysis. It is more effective when ingested, but it also somewhat effective on contact. When sprayed to foliage, emamectin benzoate penetrates the leaf tissue and forms reservoir within treated leaves, which provides residual activity against pests that ingest the substance when feeding. Emamectin is widely used in the US and Canada as an insecticide because of its chloride channel activation properties. It is approved by the EPA for use in prevention of emerald ash borer in ash trees. Emamectin has also shown promising applications in the eradication of fish lice and in fish farming.
