PESTICIDES IN THE SOIL ECOSYSTEM

Abstract

In spite of criticism of pesticides and of the gradual introduction of organic agricultural methods, pesticides remain in use and will probably continue to be used in the future. In this article, we will discuss the research which is necessary to examine the possibilities of contamination of groundwater by pesticides; the absorption, translocation and bioacumalation of pesticides in plants with potential for contamination of foodstuffs; permanency of pesticide residues in the environment for long periods; and pesticide-caused changes in microbiological processes which are important in soil fertility. This is some of the scientific information which is essential to determine efficient controls in order to avoid problems of pesticide contamination.