Insecticidal tests with analogues of DDT

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Abstract
The insecticidal powers of forty‐one compounds analogous to DDT (αα‐bis‐(γ‐chlorphenyl)‐βββ‐trichlorethane) have been examined by tests with human lice and bed bugs. Wherever possible, the substances were dissolved in refined mineral oil and sprayed directly at the insects. Compounds insoluble in oil were tested as dry powders or aqueous solutions. Some of the compounds examined showed insectieidal powers of the same type as DDT, the most toxic compounds being those whoso molecules most resembled DDT. All the effective compounds were to some extent oil‐soluble but only a small degree of this property appears to be essential. Two theories concerning the mode of action of DDT are discussed but they do not receive support from the present data.