Toxicity of Dichlorvos (2, 2- Dichlorovinyl Dimethyl Phosphate) on Fish Life

Environmental contaminants are having a major impact on receiving ecosystems including air, soil
and surface water. Wastes resulting from human activities mostly end up in surface water through
deposition and indirectly through runoff. Indiscriminate application of pesticides and the remains of
empty cans are often improperly discharged. This possess a threat to the aquatic system especially
amongst communities close to surface water resources. In Nigeria, the use of 2, 2- dichlorovinyl
dimethyl phosphate (an organophosphate insecticide) for the control of insects in household settings,
agricultural field practice and in storage facilities abounds. 2, 2- dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate has
different trade names depending on the region. This study reviewed the toxicity associated with 2, 2-
dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate. The study found that the toxicants induces behavioural and
morphological alteration, histopathological, haematological, biochemical, enzymatic, electrolytes and
developmental defects and death depending on the concentration and exposure duration. The study
also found that insecticides containing 2, 2- dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate is toxic to fish even at
low concentrations (0.2 – 2 ppm). Hence, there is the need to exercise caution in the use and disposal
of empty cans of 2, 2- dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate close to surface water.