| Popis: |
Summary Chemical pesticides applied for locust control represent a risk for humans, terrestrial non-target fauna and aquatic ecosystems. This paper reviews the field experience on side-effects. Humans most at risk are field operators themselves. Of the insecticides recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) specifically, organophosphates and carbamates should be handled with the most care. These compounds also pose a risk to birds, either by direct poisoning or by food depletion. Among the terrestrial non-target invertebrates, there are beneficial species. They appear to be generally affected by treatments, in some cases causing upsurges of secondary pests. Long-term disturbances (over one year) were observed in terrestrial invertebrate communities. The risk of environmental damage can be mitigated considerably by proper selection and use of pesticides. An improvement in the information given decision makers and in the training of operators are essential tools to achieve these goals. |
