Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
TABLE 3-5. Structure,* Toxicity,† and Persistence of the Major Pesticides and Herbicides
Background
Environmental Persistence
Toxicity
CHLORINATED PESTICIDES
●
DDT
As a group, these are the most powerful and
potentially harmful insecticides. The most
notorious is DDT, which came into
existence just prior to World War II. An
extremely versatile insecticide, it is used
mainly for mosquito control and was
largely responsible for the control of
malaria in the southern United States and
elsewhere. Still used internationally, it has
been banned in the United States for all
applications since the 1960s. Two other
very powerful chlorinated pesticides used
extensively until the 1970s are Aldrin and
Dieldrin (Endrin is the stereoisomer of
Dieldrin); both have been banned for
general usage. Chlorinated pesticides still
in common usage include lindane,
toxaphene, and heptachlor.
Months to years
Highly toxic to aquatic life and birds feeding
on aquatic life. Very low acute toxicity to
mammals.
●
Dieldrin
●
Lindane
