Fenamiphos and Related Organophosphorus Pesticides: Environmental Fate and Toxicology

Organophosphorus (OP) compounds are among the most common chemical classes used in crop and livestock protection and account for an estimated 34% of worldwide insecticide sales (Singh and Walker 2006). During the last 60 yr, approximately 150 different OP chemicals have been used to protect crops, livestock, and human health (Casida and Quistad 2004). In recent years, the OP compounds have been the most widely used group of insecticides in Australia. In addition to fenamiphos (nematicide), isofenphos, and coumaphos (insecticides), the most commonly used OP pesticides include parathion methyl, chlorpyrifos, dimethoate, and profenfos. Approximately 500 t of OP-active ingredients comprising about 30 distinct compounds have been used annually in Australia for many years (Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering 2002).