ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the toxicity of the formulations, degradation products, and isomers. It is imperative to test the toxicity of the formulations as they are used in nature, along with testing the toxicity of the pure compound, to the nontarget organisms in the aquatic ecosystem. It is also necessary to test the toxicity of the degradation products, especially that of the primary ones in nature, which sometimes may be as toxic as, if not more toxic than, the parent compounds. The aquatic organisms may be occasionally exposed to the formulations. Emulsifiable concentrates are more toxic than the technical-grade material, whereas dust and powder formulations are less toxic. While selecting a pesticide for use, the toxicity of the degradation product is evaluated more often than not, in the terrestrial environment. Such degradation products may turn out to be more toxic than the parent compounds to the aquatic organisms.
