8.6.1. Reducing chemical fertilizer and pesticide use

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does DDT stand for?

   Hint

   Consider the chemical composition.

2. 2.

   Name one natural method to control pests.

   Hint

   Think of beneficial insects.

3. 3.

   What does DDT do to bird populations?

   • It increases fertility.
   • It causes eggshell thinning.
   • It has no effect.

   Hint

   Consider how chemicals affect reproduction.

4. 4.

   True or False: Biomagnification occurs only in aquatic ecosystems.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about food chains in different environments.

5. 5.

   Evaluate the long-term ecological consequences of relying heavily on chemical fertilizers in agriculture.

   Hint

   Consider the cycle of nutrients and the role of healthy soil.

6. 6.

   Propose a sustainable plan for a farming operation that currently uses large amounts of pesticides.

   Hint

   Think about all aspects of farming and sustainability.