Abstract: Diamide pesticides are a class of insecticides attracting great attention after neonicotinoids. The action target of diamide insecticides is ryanodine receptor or γ-aminobutyric acid receptor, which exhibits extraordinary potency on lepidopteran pests. With the widespread application of diamide pesticides, the potential threat to non-target organisms and aquatic ecosystems and the resistance of target pests have been observed. This study summarizes the biological activity, ecological toxicity, analytical methodology, environmental fate and risk assessment of diamide pesticides based on the research progress at home and abroad and prospects the research orientations in future in order to provide scientific references for accurate application, risk aversion and effective management of diamide pesticides.