Recent study in Environmental Science & Technology Letters warns that pesticides used on seed crops harm earthworm health, causing poor weight gain and DNA damage.

A recent study published in the American Chemical Society's Environmental Science & Technology Letters journal warns that pesticides used to protect growing seed crops are detrimental to the health of earthworms. The researchers found that even minor exposure to certain insecticides and fungicides led to poor weight gain and DNA damage in earthworms. Some worms exposed to these pesticides gained up to 80% less weight than those not exposed. The study highlights the unexpected risks of using such pesticides in seed treatment, as these chemicals also impact other vital organisms such as bees and earthworms that contribute to farm productivity.

February 14, 2024
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