Imazapic is a selective herbicide for both the pre- and post-emergent control of some annual and perennial grasses and some broadleaf weeds. Imazapic kills plants by inhibiting the production of branched chain amino acids, which are necessary for protein synthesis and cell growth. It has been useful for weed control in natural areas, particularly in conjunction with the establishment of native warm-season prairie grasses and certain legumes. Imazapic is relatively non-toxic to terrestrial and aquatic mammals, birds, and amphibians. It has a low level of toxicity to birds but is more toxic to aquatic life and honey bees. It has a high potential for bioaccumulation. Imazapic has an average half-life of 120 days in soil. It is may be persistent in soil systems but usually degrades quickly in aquatic systems via photolysis. It has a high aqueous solubility, is volatile and, based on its chemical properties, is moderately mobile and may leach to groundwater.