A series of novel 2-(2,4,6-trisubstituted phenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazolin-5-one derivatives and 3-(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)pyrazolin-5-one derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for insecticidal activity. It was found that a moderately bulky alkyl group, such as a tert-butyl group, on the heterocyclic ring, and a triýuoromethyl group on the benzene ring were optimal substituents on the molecule. The oxygen atom in the oxadiazoline ring was essential for insecticidal activity. Of the compounds assayed, 4-tert-butyl-2-(2,6-dichloro-4-triýuoromethylphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazolin-5-one gave the highest activity against Nephtotettix cincticeps, with an value of 0.51 mg litre-1. LC 50 1999 Society of Chemical Industry (