Inhibition of Acetylcholinesterase as a Criterion to Determine the Degree of Insecticide Poisoning inApis Cerana Indica

Abstract
Summary Topical application of 10 organophosphates and 2 carbamates inhibited thoracic AChE of A.c.indica to different levels in bees sampled at the stages of hyperactivity, knockdown, and acute paralysis; the mean inhibitions were 39%, 63%, 96% respectively. Signs of poisoning were first observable when AChE inhibition exceeded 35%, and death occurred at 96% or more inhibition. It is suggested that AChE inhibition could be used as a criterion of poisoning in determining insecticide toxicity, as an alternative to LD50.