A field exposed to excessive pesticide use shows a sharp decline in earthworm population. The resulting effect on soil is:
Reduced soil fertility
Earthworms are vital to soil health — they aerate the soil, mix organic matter, and enhance nutrient cycling.
Heavy or repeated use of pesticides kills earthworms and other soil organisms, leading to:
- Reduced aeration and water infiltration
- Decreased decomposition of organic matter
- Lower nutrient availability for plants
- Overall decline in soil fertility
This is an example of biomagnification — pesticides also accumulate as they move up the food chain.
Similar Questions
The primary method of managing biodegradable domestic waste after collection is _________________.
The term 'smog' is a combination of ____________.
Biomedical waste handlers in a hospital are at risk of occupational hazards. The most effective way to protect them from exposure to infectious materials is:
A farmer applies large amounts of chemical fertilizers over several years. Which consequence most likely results from this practice leading to soil pollution?
The pollutant group commonly associated with oil spills in oceans is ______________.
What is the main reason sulfur dioxide irritates the upper respiratory mucous membrane?
The term 'smog' is a combination of ____________.
The pollutant group commonly associated with oil spills in oceans is ______________.
Biomedical waste handlers in hospitals face occupational hazards. Which of the following is the most effective way to protect them from exposure to infectious materials?
The primary method of managing biodegradable domestic waste after collection is _________________.
Important Questions from Ecology and Environment
Which one of the following cities is associated with Biosaftey protocol to the Convention on Biological Diversity (2000) ?
The following six (6) items consist of two statements, Statement I and Statement II. Examine these two statements carefully and select the answer using the code given below.
Statement I: Phytoplankton produce most of the organic carbon in the ocean.
Statement II: Algae are produced in the cold water biome.
Which one of the following is the correct sequence about various levels of organization of Biosphere?
In India, Project Tiger started in ________.
The process of wastewater treatment is commonly called ______ treatment.
