Abstract

Thiamethoxam in Tropical Agroecosystems

Juan Valente Megchún-García, María del Refugio Castañeda-Chávez, Daniel Arturo RodríguezLagunes, Joaquín Murguía-González, Fabiola Lango-Reynoso, Otto Raúl Leyva- Ovalle

Because of its effectiveness in combating pests in agricultural crops, the group of neonicotinoids has regained importance, within this group the insectice thiamethoxan is highlighted. It was registered in México in 2004, from then until now its use has not been restricted. In order to establish the current situation of the use of thiamethoxam in México and other countries, a documentary study has been made, so this allows us to know both the damages and benefits caused to the ecosystem. It has now been found that the massive use of this insecticide causes harm to public health and also represents a danger to animals and plants coexisting in agrocultural ecosystems. One of the thiamethoxam’s characteristics, which allowed its use, is their efficiency in the fight against sucking insects such as, the whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), aphids and mites. Applying it, over both the floor and the canopy of the plant, has become a threat to bees, since they are natural pollinators of 90% of tropical fruit and vegetables. It is considered to cause damage to soil organisms and because its high mobility allows it to be present in surface water, causing death among aquatic species. This analysis proposes using sustainable techniques and methodologies to ensure minimal environmental impact; one of them would be applying an organic or sustainable agriculture to guarantee the welfare and health of social groups.

Published Date: 2016-10-05;