Pronunciation: [ɹˈə͡ʊtnɒn] (IPA) 
The word "rotenone" is spelled with five letters, but it's more complex than it seems. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈroʊtənoʊn/, indicating that it has two syllables, starting with a stressed "ro" ("rot") and ending with an "n" sound. The "e" at the end of the word is silent, creating a long "o" sound with the preceding "o". Rotenone is a natural insecticide found in the roots of plants like Lonchocarpus and Derris.
Rotenone is a naturally occurring chemical compound that falls under the class of natural products called pyrethroids. It is typically derived from the roots of several plants belonging to the Leguminosae family, such as Derris and Lonchocarpus. Rotenone has been used for centuries as a broad-spectrum insecticide and piscicide, primarily targeting a wide range of insect pests and certain fish species.
As an insecticide, rotenone interferes with the normal functioning of an insect's nervous system, inhibiting the electron transport chain within its cells. This disruption ultimately leads to the paralysis and death of the targeted insect. Due to its botanical origin, rotenone is considered an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic insecticides.
In addition to its use as an insecticide, rotenone is commonly utilized as a piscicide for fishery management purposes. By inducing paralysis in fish, rotenone effectively controls invasive fish populations and allows for the restocking of desired fish species in lakes and streams.
However, while rotenone has been traditionally regarded as a safe and effective pesticide, recent studies suggest potential concerns regarding its impact on human health. There is evidence linking rotenone exposure to Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder. As a result, its use as an insecticide and piscicide has been prohibited or restricted in some regions, emphasizing the need for alternative methods in pest control and fishery management.
The word "rotenone" has its origins in the German language. It comes from the German word "Rotenon", which is derived from "roe", meaning root, and "ton", meaning tannin or tincture. The term was first used by German botanist Ludwig Diels in 1902 to describe a natural insecticide found in the roots of several tropical plants, particularly those belonging to the Leguminosae (Fabaceae) family.
