Pyrethroids are generally broad-spectrum insecticides.
They control a large variety of insects, although
the effective dose may vary greatly between
the most and least sensitive species. In stored products
protection a synergist is commonly added. In
food and fiber production the pyrethroid is often
used in the same fields as one or more other insecticides,
miticides or ovicides. To protect susceptible
honeybees, pyrethroids must be applied at times and
in amounts to minimize pollinator and hive damage.
Predator and parasite kills may lead to resurgences
of pests no longer controlled by their natural
enemies. Pyrethroids are not effective in controlling
soil insects possibly due to soil binding and metabolism
of the compounds. Crustaceans and beneficial
aquatic insects are potential non-target victims of
pyrethroid uses to control mosquito larvae and other
dipterous larvae of medical importance.