Uma visão geral sobre os agrotóxicos no Brasil, resíduos na água e efeitos em organismos aquáticos

Abstract

Brazil stands out in the world scenario for being a cultivator of large extensions of crops and exporter of raw materials, due to its comprehensive territory and biodiversity of fauna and flora. However, there is a concern related to the high risks from pesticides, since the action of the active ingredients present in these chemicals is not selective to the point of acting only where expected, causing damage to the environment. The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review on pesticides in Brazil, legislation, residues found in water, and effects on aquatic organisms. To this end, an exploratory study of scientific literature was carried out, starting with the consultation of articles available in electronic databases and libraries of scientific texts. We listed the 10 most sold pesticides in Brazil and in the three southern states: Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. About each of these pesticides were described how many formulated products are registered in Brazil, the toxicity, the number of countries where they are banned in the world and what concentration is allowed in drinking water. Regarding water, it was explained how the pesticides affect water sources, and presented the legislation and studies that showed residues in water of the most used pesticides in the country. The effects on aquatic animals showed that pesticides in water are a risk factor for these organisms. This literature review shows that pesticides are indeed widely used, which is of concern for health and the environment. We suggest future studies that focus on aquatic biota, and on measures to reduce contamination by these chemicals.