What is a primary characteristic of neonicotinoid insecticides?

Neonicotinoid insecticides are known for their excellent control of sucking insects such as aphids, whiteflies, and leafhoppers. This effectiveness comes from their action on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the nervous system of insects, leading to paralysis and eventual death. Their systemic nature allows them to be absorbed by plants, enabling the insecticide to be present in the plant's tissues, making it toxic to insects that feed on it.

The characteristic of being effective against sucking insects is crucial because these pests can be particularly damaging to crops and ornamental plants due to their feeding habits, which can cause stunting, yellowing, or the transmission of plant diseases. The targeting of these pests is a significant reason for the prevalent use of neonicotinoids in agricultural practices.

Other characteristics, such as systemic properties that allow foliar application, enhance their utility in pest management strategies, but it is their specific effectiveness against sucking insects that sets them apart as a go-to choice among pest control options.