Research from Macquarie University highlights the impact of chlorothalonil, a widely used fungicide, on insect fertility, even at low concentrations commonly detected on produce. The study examined fruit flies exposed to typical chlorothalonil doses, revealing an immediate decrease in egg production by more than a third. The implications extend beyond fruit flies, potentially affecting bees and other key pollinators.
Chlorothalonil remains prevalent in regions like Australia despite its ban in the European Union. This chemical is used in vineyards and berry farms, often as a preventative measure, not only when diseases present a threat. The study signifies one among many that illustrate global declines in insect populations, pointing toward an 'insect apocalypse.'
Amid its continued agricultural application, chlorothalonil requires more scrutiny. Its environmental effects on insect populations have been minimally researched, with under 25 studies on record. This research underscores a need to reevaluate our pesticide assessment methods.
The study's authors propose reconsidering the frequency of chlorothalonil spraying. Introducing gaps in treatment may help insect populations to recover, although optimal recovery periods between applications remain undefined.
Source: BGR
