By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announces its final registration decision for products containing cyclobutrifluram, a new nematicide and fungicide active ingredient. The decision is released on December 12, 2025, and allows the product to be used on turf, ornamentals, romaine lettuce, cotton seed, and soybean seed.
According to EPA evaluations, no human health risks of concern are identified when cyclobutrifluram is used according to label directions. The agency also confirms that with required mitigation measures in place, the registered uses are not expected to impact endangered species or their critical habitats.
Cyclobutrifluram is designed to support Integrated Pest Management programs. IPM emphasizes pest prevention, monitoring, and the careful use of pesticides only when needed. The new active ingredient can be rotated with other nematicides to help reduce the risk of pest resistance. This flexibility provides an additional option for managing pests before planting and early crop development.
The EPA conducts both human health and ecological risk assessments as part of the registration process. For cyclobutrifluram, the agency completes a biological evaluation under the Endangered Species Act and carries out consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The service agrees with EPA’s finding that the approved uses are not likely to harm endangered species, leading to final approval.
Specific label instructions are included to reduce effects on non-target species. These include requirements for turf applications using coarse spray droplets, restrictions to limit exposure to flowering plants, and instructions to cover or collect spilled treated seeds.
Cyclobutrifluram contains fluorinated carbon, and EPA continues to evaluate such pesticides to ensure they meet safety standards. Supporting documents related to this registration are available through the federal regulations website for public review.
The active ingredient is already registered in several other countries, including Australia, Argentina, and Brazil, and is proposed for use in Canada. Its approval in the United States expands available tools for crop protection while supporting food production and environmental stewardship.
Photo Credit: istock-pixeldigits
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Soybeans, Energy