Acynonapyr & Kodama Miticide: Public Consultation – Health Canada (Feb-Mar 2026)
New Miticide Acynonapyr Under Review: What Fruit Growers Need to Know
Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) is currently seeking public feedback on the proposed registration of Acynonapyr Technical and Kodama Miticide. This new pesticide, containing the active ingredient acynonapyr, is designed to combat Tetranychid mites – a significant threat to pome fruit crops like apples and pears. The consultation period runs from February 10th to March 12th, 2026, offering a crucial window for stakeholders to voice their opinions.
Acynonapyr: A Novel Approach to Mite Control
Acynonapyr represents a new mode of action in pest management, targeting calcium-activated potassium channels (Group 33 in the IRAC classification). Here’s particularly important as mite populations are increasingly developing resistance to existing pesticides. Developed by Nippon Soda Co., Ltd., acynonapyr offers highly selective control of spider mites in the Tetranychus and Panonychus genera, common pests in fruit orchards.
Why is a New Miticide Needed?
Spider mites cause substantial damage to a wide range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and teas. Traditional miticides are losing effectiveness due to widespread resistance. Acynonapyr’s unique mechanism provides a valuable tool for integrated pest management (IPM) programmes, helping to manage resistance and protect crop yields.
The PMRA Evaluation and Public Consultation
The PMRA’s evaluation has determined that, when used as directed, Acynonapyr Technical and Kodama Miticide pose acceptable health and environmental risks. However, the agency is committed to transparency and welcomes public input before finalizing its decision. The consultation summary document is available on the Health Canada website. Comments must be submitted in writing to the PMRA’s Publications Section by March 12th, 2026, though requests for a 15-day extension will be considered if submitted within the initial 30-day period.
Impact on Pome Fruit Growers
The proposed registration focuses initially on Crop Group 11-09: Pome Fruits. This includes apples, pears, and related varieties. Acynonapyr’s selectivity means it targets mites while minimizing harm to beneficial insects, a key principle of IPM. The PMRA utilizes crop groups to streamline the establishment of Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), ensuring food safety.
Beyond Pome Fruits: Potential Future Applications
While the initial focus is on pome fruits, research suggests acynonapyr could be effective in other crops, including almonds, citrus, grapes, and hops. The novel mode of action and high selectivity make it a promising candidate for broader agricultural use.
Staying Informed and Getting Involved
Health Canada will publish a Registration Decision outlining the final outcome of the review. Updates and relevant documents will be available on the Pesticides and Pest Management section of the Canada.ca website. Interested parties can also sign up for updates on consultations through the Health Canada stakeholder registry.
FAQ
Q: What is acynonapyr?
A: Acynonapyr is a novel acaricide developed to control spider mites, particularly those resistant to other pesticides.
Q: What crops is acynonapyr being considered for?
A: Initially, it’s proposed for use on pome fruits (apples, pears). Further registrations may follow.
Q: How can I submit comments to the PMRA?
A: Comments must be submitted in writing to the PMRA’s Publications Section by March 12th, 2026.
Q: Where can I find more information?
A: Visit the Health Canada website’s Pesticides and Pest Management section.
Did you know? Acynonapyr is the first agricultural chemical to target calcium-activated potassium channels, offering a unique approach to mite control.
Pro Tip: Review the Consultation Summary document carefully before submitting comments to ensure your feedback is directly related to the science evaluation.
Stay informed about pesticide regulations and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about sustainable pest management practices. Explore the Health Canada PMRA website for additional resources and opportunities to get involved.