8.2. Indiscriminate use of pesticides, insecticides and herbicides

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does DDT stand for?

   Hint

   Think about the components of the name.

2. 2.

   Which bird species were notably affected by DDT?

   Hint

   Consider what high-level predators might be impacted.

3. 3.

   What is the primary reason for the development of pesticide resistance?

   • Increased usage of fertilizers
   • Overuse of pesticides
   • Natural selection
   • None of the above

   Hint

   Think about what happens when the same method is used over and over.

4. 4.

   True or False: Most pesticides like DDT decompose quickly.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the environmental impact.

5. 5.

   Design an integrated pest management (IPM) plan for a hypothetical farm, detailing the steps you would take to reduce pesticide dependency.

   Hint

   Consider all aspects of pest management in your plan.

6. 6.

   Assess the long-term environmental impacts of banning DDT globally. How would the ecosystem respond and change?

   Hint

   Think about the broader ecosystem interactions.