INSECTS THAT FLY - Part 2

This material has been discussed in detail in class with regard to the out-of-date information which it contains, in particular concerning the chemical Lindane. A newspaper article on the lethal effects of lindane was skim-read and oral questioning to elicit the main points took place.

Aldrin, which is available as a dust or a spray, is used to control wireworm. It has to be used carefully as it is toxic to animals, and it should never be used on crops less than two weeks before they are harvested.

BHC, which comes in dust, liquid or spray form, can be used on wheat bulb fly and some caterpillars. It must be used in small quantities as it affects the taste of the plants it is used on.

DDT is a highly toxic liquid or powder which is capable of killing most known pests. Its use is now forbidden in many countries as it is poisonous to many animals and can harm humans if it becomes involved in our food chain.

Derris is most commonly used as a powder but it is also available in liquid form. It is used to kill various pests but it should not be used near water as it is harmful to fish.

Lindane, which is either a mild form of BHC, is used to control various pests. It comes either as a dust or as a liquid. (This information is completely incorrect, but has been included because this was commonly held to be true 20 years ago.)

(female mexican fruit fly)

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