aquatic blog 2

"Reducing Pesticide Pollution of Aquatic Ecosystems"
july 16, 2008

Summary:The 5-year research goal of the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Program addressed is to understand relationships between and among aquatic species habitats.

Every year millions of tons of pesticides are applied to soils in and around aquatic ecosystems that eventually pollute rivers, streams, lakes, wetlands, and municipal water supplies. "Agricultural soils are routinely sterilized with a chemical that destroys atmospheric ozone and increases the amount of ultraviolet light radiation which results in the degradation of aquatic systems." In an attempt to decrease pesticide pollution of aquatic ecosystems, a project has begun to develop to control agents to protect plants against fungal diseases. There are 3 objectives to this project. To understanding how fungi cause disease, understanding how plants that are symbiotic with certain fungi are resistant to fungal diseases, and develope an effective control system to protect plants against fungal diseases. If this project works its effectiveness could save many lifes of plants and small animals. It will also make the environment and water healthier.