OBERON is a new insecticide/miticide registered for use in cotton for control of spider mites and whiteflies. The mode of action of OBERON is characterized as lipid biosynthesis inhibition (LBI). OBERON interferes with insect/mite lipogenesis by preventing proper biosynthesis of fatty acids and their subsequent biochemical derivatives. OBERON is active against all spider mite development stages including eggs. OBERON is also highly effective against whitefly eggs and nymphs, with a significant effect on the otherwise difficult to control pupal stage. OBERON speed of activity is intermediate compared to insect growth regulators which are slower and classical chemistries which are faster acting.

Oberon received registration in CA/AZ early 2005. Many commercial applications were made in side-by-side comparisons to other registered materials. OBERON consistently delivered greater than 4 weeks of spider mite control. In Arizona, OBERON provided equal or better whitefly control compared to other registered materials.