Environmental risk assessment of carbosulfan on target and non-target beetles when used as white grub larvicide in the cork oak forest of Mamora (Morocco)

Abstract

The protection of new cork oak plantations against the larvae of the beetle Sphodroxia maroccana (Melolonthidae), which destroy the roots of newly planted trees, was provided for many years in the forest of Mamora in Morocco by the use of carbosulfan, usually formulated as dry granules for direct incorporation into the soil at planting. Ecotoxicological tests were conducted in the laboratory on S. maroccana and on two non-target beetle species, namely Pachychila obtusecostata and Pimelia platynota (Tenebrionidae), to measure the acute effects of carbosulfan and evaluate the potential risk associated with inappropriate practices. The mortality was measured at both 4 d and 7 d after ingestion of a known quantity of carbosulfan. The recommended dose by the manufacturer was exceeded by at least four-fold in the Mamora Forest, with obvious environmental risks. Risks were identified for wildlife when the pesticide is misused and spread on the soil around the plants.

Toxicity assessment of Cedrus deodara oil compared to carbosulfan for Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) adults

“…Carbosulfan reduced the population of Thrips tabaci (Zaman 1989) by a dose four times higher than that permitted against Pachychila obtusecostata (Tenebrionidae: Tenebrionidae) (Fegrouche et al 2014).…”

Green synthesis, characterization, and biochemical impacts of new bioactive isoxazoline‐sulfonamides as potential insecticidal agents against the Sphodroxia maroccana Ley

“…Insecticidal activities of synthesized compounds were tested indoors according to literature 16 using a positive control (fluralaner, 98% purity) and negative control (Water, no compound used) against fourth‐instar larvae of Sphodroxia maroccana .…”

“…The control of the larvae of the beetle Sphodroxia maroccana (Melolonthidae) has been assured for many years in the Mamora forest in Morocco by the use of carbosulfan and chlorpyriphos directly into the soil at planting time 15–17 . However, despite its usefulness against S. maroccana , it presents potential risks to the environment through the mortality of granivorous birds and even many non‐target beetles such as Pachychila obtusecostata and Pimelia platynota (Tenebrionidae) 16 . Since 2004, our group has been conducting biological research to describe the behavior and life cycle of this new pest 15,18–21 .…”

“…[15][16][17] However, despite its usefulness against S. maroccana, it presents potential risks to the environment through the mortality of granivorous birds and even many non-target beetles such as Pachychila obtusecostata and Pimelia platynota (Tenebrionidae). 16 Since 2004, our group has been conducting biological research to describe the behavior and life cycle of this new pest. 15,[18][19][20][21] Currently, several synthetic chemical pesticides are widely used to control insect pests and have a significant role in crop protection due to their great efficiency, fast-action, and broad insecticidal spectrum.…”