Emamectin benzoate (MK-0244) is a novel semi-synthetic derivative of the natural product abamectin in the avermectin family of 16-membered macrocylic lactones. This epi-methyl amino derivative has unprecedented potency against a broad spectrum of lepidopterous pests with LC₉₀ values ranging between 0.001-0.02 ug/ml in ingestion-based foliar spray assays. Emamectin benzoate is ca. 1,500-fold more potent against certain armyworm species than abamectin. It is more potent against tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (F.) and beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner), than other new insecticides, such as fipronil, chlorfenapyr, and tebufenozide. In the field, the compound is very effective at controlling all lepidopterous pests on various crops at low use rates (8.4-16.8 g ai/ha). The mode of action is similar to abamectin (GABA- and glutamate-gated chloride channel agonist) and is not cross resistant with any other compound currently used commercially. The first registrations for the compound in the U.S. and Japan are anticipated for 1997. Registration on cotton is expected prior to the 1999 use season. An overview of its potential for control of lepidopterous pests on cotton is provided.