Which of the following is NOT toxic to non-target organisms in the soil?

The correct answer is Organic fertilisers.

Key Points

• Organic fertilisers are derived from plant and animal materials.
• They include compost, manure, bone meal, and green manure.
• These fertilisers enhance soil structure and increase its ability to retain water and nutrients.
• They are not harmful to non-target organisms in the soil, unlike chemical fertilisers and pesticides.
• They promote biodiversity by encouraging the presence of beneficial microorganisms and earthworms.
• Organic fertilisers release nutrients slowly, reducing the risk of nutrient leaching and runoff, which can pollute water bodies.

 Additional Information

• Pesticides
  • Pesticides are chemicals used to kill or control pests, including insects, weeds, and fungal diseases.
  • They can be harmful to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, soil microorganisms, and even humans.
  • Examples of common pesticides include insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides.
• Herbicides
  • Herbicides are a type of pesticide specifically designed to kill or control weeds.
  • They can negatively impact non-target plants and microorganisms in the soil.
  • Common herbicides include glyphosate and atrazine.
• Fungicides
  • Fungicides are chemicals used to prevent or eliminate fungal infections in plants.
  • They can harm non-target soil organisms, including beneficial fungi and bacteria.
  • Examples of fungicides include copper sulfate and chlorothalonil.