Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

How do organophosphates generally behave in the environment?

1. Highly persistent and bioaccumulate

2. Break down quickly and are not persistent

3. Completely stable with long half-lives

4. Cause long-term toxicity

The correct answer is: Break down quickly and are not persistent

Organophosphates typically break down quickly in the environment primarily through hydrolysis, photolysis, and microbial activity, which means they do not persist for long periods. Their chemical structure allows them to degrade relatively fast when exposed to environmental factors such as water, sunlight, and soil microorganisms. This rapid breakdown minimizes their accumulation in the environment, making them less likely to remain present over an extended duration compared to substances that are highly persistent. Additionally, the low persistence of organophosphates reduces the risk of long-term environmental toxicity in the habitats where they are used. This characteristic is significant for pest management practices, ensuring that these chemicals have a shorter impact window, which can be beneficial in reducing potential harm to non-target organisms.