Chemical Control Agents Used Against the Gypsy Moth Essay

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Chemical Control Agents Used Against the Gypsy Moth

The gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) is a highly disruptive species that can, and has played a distinctive role in the lives of many organisms. Included in these organisms are various deciduous trees and shrubs, wildlife species that share the same environment, and even humans. The gypsy moth destroys the beauty of woodlands via defoliation, alters ecosystems and wildlife habitats, and disrupts our own lives. It should therefore come as no surprise that the U.S. Department of Agriculture and many other agencies have taken huge steps to help diminish populations of this small, yet persistent species. In an effort to control these overwhelming populations, five chemical control agents have…show more content…
It is unknown whether or not these agents effect B.t.k. formulations or the effects they may have towards the workers.

A variety of mammals have been tested for pathogenicity and other toxic effects of B.t.k. using several exposure routes. No evidence of pathogenicity was found in these experimental animals. However, viable B.t.k. has been recovered in humans up to several months after exposure. A few inconsistent studies were also reported in rats exposed to high B.t.k. levels. Symptoms included lethargy, frequent urination, hair loss and piloerection (hair stands up on end).

The most likely routes of exposure of B.t.k. to the general public include skin, oral, and inhalation. A small amount of blood or eye exposure may occur in workers, but even then there is no guarantee of risk. B.t.k. seems to be an effective and widely used chemical agent for suppression of the gypsy moth.

Nucleopolyhedrosis virus (NPV) is a chemical agent containing gypsy moth parts causing viral disease of insect larvae. NPV is sprayed aerially over relatively large areas and poses minimal risk to both workers and the general public. There is, however, a lack of both human toxicity and exposure data so most of the risk assessment concerning NPV come only from experimental mammals. From this data, there has been no evidence of systemic or respiratory disease conditions. Under certain conditions, NPV may cause eye and skin irritations. But, only when
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