Pesticides
Pesticides are special chemicals used to kill harmful pests such as bacteria and moulds. They can be found in many forms such as insecticides, herbicides, lures and baits. Types of Pesticides
Bactericides work by preventing the spread of bacteria. One example is chlorine which is used in swimming pools. These can be effective in controlling localized populations of bacteria, however, there are more effective pesticides used to control fungi and insects. Baits are a ready mixed substance which is combined with food. These are effective in eradicating household pests such as cockroaches. Fungicides control or destroy fungi growth in plants such as grape vines and fruit trees. Herbicides control weed growth and other unwanted plant growth by using chemicals such as glyphosate to control the weed accumulation in gardens and farmlands. Insecticides are used to suppress or destroy pests known as insects. They are used to control insect species ranging from moths to fruit flies. Lures are basically chemicals which attract pests. These can be in the form of cheese in a mousetrap and are strictly food-based. Advantages 54559fdr27tie4n Prevent infestation by pests in plants, places or objects Can be made synthetically and in high quantities Pesticides can be modified to suit a specific crop or area Pesticides will prevent attack by unwanted pests in an effective manner, therefore humans have a minimal exposure to the pests di559f4527tiie
Disadvantages
Chemicals leak into ground water, poisoning our water supplies and reservoirs Chemicals can be classed as carcinogens Pesticides have been known to cause reproductive problems, organ damage and system dysfunctions Pesticides such as DDT seep into water bodies and kill wildlife such as plankton, fish and other sea creatures Bacteria and other pests become immune to pesticides after long term exposure
