ABSTRACT
Release of malathion to the environment will occur as a result of its manufacture and use as a broad spectrum insecticide and acaricide. If malathion is released to soil, it should moderately bind to the soil, and will be subject to significant biodegradation and hydrolysis. Occupational exposure to malathion will occur mainly from dermal contact and inhalation of contaminated air as a result of its use as an insecticide and acaricide. Release of malathion to the environment may result from its production, formulation and widespread use as insecticide, and from household applications. If malathion is released to the atmosphere it may be subject to direct photolysis. Malathion was listed in the waters of Lake Erie. Malathion was detected at concn ranging from 7 to 1 ppm in dry soils from West Bengal at 15 days after treatment. Malathion was detected in tissue samples from fish from 144 estuaries throughout USA.
