A large number of neonicotinoid insecticides have been banned in the E.U. based on their deleterious effects on beneficial insects including honeybees. The Environmental Protection Agency issued a draft biological evaluation of the three leading neonicotinoid formulations on August 26 th including :-
- Imidacloprid (GAUCHO®) manufactured by Bayer
- Clothianidin (PONCHO®) manufactured by BASF
- Thiamethoxam (CRUISER®) manufactured by Syngenta
All three compounds are used extensively to treat corn, soybeans, wheat and cotton.
The EPA determined that all three neonicotinoids will be likely to adversely affect endangered species and critical habitats. Imidacloprid could affect 1,445 endangered species and 658 critical habitats. The EPA determination that the compounds are "likely to adversely affect" either endangered species or critical habitats could result in label changes mandating restrictions on use under provisions of the Endangered Species Act.