The most comprehensive survey to date of pollution in the US from a controversial group of pesticides has found the chemicals are widespread in streams and rivers. Though not considered a human health threat, the findings underscore the environmental ubiquity and potential for ecological harm of neonicotinoids.
While neonicotinoids have been blamed for fuelling declines of bees, researchers say their effects could extend beyond pollinators. Also at risk are invertebrates that form the foundation of aquatic food chains and the myriad creatures who feed upon them.
“These compounds are increasing in use and it’s important to know where they’re going,” says Michelle Hladik, a chemist with the US Geological Survey, whose team found neonicotinoids in 20 of 38 watersheds across the United States [1]. “This demonstrates that these pesticides are in the water. They’re in the environment.”