Alpha-terthienyl, a naturally occurring secondary plant metabolite is found
in abundance in the roots of Tagetes species (family Asterasceae). It is a
ctivated by ultraviolet light and is toxic to a number of insect species. I
t generates oxygen radical species and has capacity to inhibit several enzy
mes like both in vivo and in vitro. Alpha-terthienyl possesses all the desi
rable properties of a good insecticide/pesticide. It is fast acting, non-to
xic, economic and a property of degradation makes it more user friendly and
safe. Secondary plant metabolites will play an important role in future in
secticide development programme.