Review of the effects of organophosphorus and carbamate insecticides on vertebrates. Are there implications for locust management in Australia?

Abstract

The Australian Plague Locust Commission uses the organophosphorus insecticide fenitrothion to control locust population increases across 2000000 km2 of eastern Australia. Although the impact of fenitrothion on non-target invertebrates has been studied, effects on vertebrates are largely unquantified. Lethal and sublethal impacts on vertebrates are a consequence of the use of organophosphorus and carbamate insecticides. Information detailing the effects of exposure on free-living animals, particularly for herpetofauna, is lacking. This paper reviews literature concerned with the impacts of organophosphorus and carbamate insecticides on terrestrial vertebrates and highlights the need for continued research into the effects of these chemicals, especially in Australia.