In the period 1971–1975, evidence grew that it acted by inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase (SDHI),[8] and later work showed that it binds to the quinone reduction site of the enzyme complex, preventing ubiquinone from doing so.

[9][10] The compound was an early example of a fungicide exhibiting systemic movement from its application site on the crop plant to protect newly-growing tissue.

[6] Owing to its systemic properties, carboxin is suitable for use as a seed treatment to give fungal control on the growing crop.

[12] Carboxin was the first SDHI-type fungicide and its invention triggered a search for compounds with improved properties, particularly for active ingredients which would control a broader range of economically-important diseases.

[16] Carboxin is the ISO common name[17] for the active ingredient which is formulated into the branded product sold to end-users.