Effects of pesticides on water
Effects of pesticides on water
Pesticides are chemical substances used in agriculture to combat pests, weeds and diseases and increase the productivity of the fields. However, their use also has significant environmental damage, especially for the quality and the ecosystem of water. This article deals in detail with the effects of pesticides on water. The transmission of pesticides into waters
rainwater drain
One of the main sources for contamination of water by pesticides is the drainage of treated fields during and after rainfall. The pesticides are washed out of the ground by the rainwater and flow into nearby surface waters with the water. This process is referred to as surface drainage.
groundwater infiltration
Another transmission path is the infiltration of pesticides in the groundwater. Some pesticides are very persistent and can remain in the ground over long periods of time. The pesticides remaining in the ground can then be washed into the groundwater by rainfall.
The effects of pesticides on water quality
deterioration of water chemistry
Pesticides can directly influence the chemical composition of waters. You can change the pH, reduce the oxygen concentration and release toxic compounds. In particular, the release of toxic compounds, such as chloroform, can have a significant impact on people's health and the environment.
drug residues and hormones
Some pesticides can also remain in the water as drug residues. These residues can disturb the reproductive and hormone systems of fish and other water organisms and lead to developmental disorders and gender-specific changes in behavior.
The effects of pesticides on water organisms
Effects on algae and aquatic plants
Algae and aquatic plants form the basis of the food chain in water. They are essential for the oxygen household and serve as a food base for many animals. Pesticides can affect growth and increase in these plants and thus disturb the entire ecosystem.
Effects on water insects and crustaceans
Water insects and crusts are essential for the function of water ecosystems. They serve as food for fish. Pesticides can damage these organisms directly by disturbing their reproductive and growth processes.
Effects on fish and amphibians
Fish and amphibians are particularly sensitive to pesticides because they spend a large part of their life in water contact. Pesticides can affect reproduction, growth and behavior of fish and amphibians and even lead to death.
risks for humans
Risks by consuming contaminated fish
The consumption of fish contaminated with pesticides can be health risks for humans. Pesticides can accumulate in the adipose tissue of fish and get into the human body through food. Some pesticides are toxic and can damage the nervous system or cause cancer.
Risks through contact with contaminated water
Direct contact with contaminated water can also be health risks. The skin can absorb pesticides and transport it into the bloodstream. Inhaling contaminated water vapor can also be harmful to health.
summary and outlook
The effects of pesticides on water are diverse and worrying. They range from a deterioration in water quality to negative effects on aquatic organisms to health risks for humans. It is important that the use of pesticides is carefully monitored and minimized and that sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives are promoted. This is the only way to ensure the health of our waters and ultimately our own health.