Which factor is crucial to consider when selecting a pesticide for aquatic use?

When selecting a pesticide for aquatic use, the half-life and persistence in water is a crucial factor to consider. The half-life refers to the time it takes for the concentration of the pesticide in the water to reduce to half its initial value. This characteristic is significant because it provides insight into how long the pesticide will remain active and potentially affect non-target organisms in the aquatic environment.

Understanding the persistence of a pesticide is essential for several reasons. First, if a pesticide remains in the water for an extended period, it could have prolonged effects on aquatic life, potentially leading to toxicity or disruption of the ecosystem. Additionally, longer persistence may increase the likelihood of bioaccumulation in fish and other organisms, which can have further ecological and health implications. Therefore, assessing the half-life and persistence helps in making environmentally responsible decisions that minimize negative impacts while effectively managing pests.