Abstract

Sayeda Fauzia Manowar*, Puspanjali Parida, Janmejaya Bag

ABSTRACT

The use of pesticides and fertilizers in the agricultural field is increasing tremendously to overcome the food requirement. As it is used in huge quantities, it adversely affects the target and other organisms in terrestrial (soil) and aquatic ecosystems. In this present study, the antagonistic effect of the pesticide Triazophos is compared with the earthworm species called Eudrilus eugeniae. E. eugeniae are nature’s aerator, crusher, composter, and moisture builder of the soil surface. Triazophos is used as an organophosphate insecticide by Indian farmers in crop fields. The study found that the protein quantity, GSH, and LPx content were reduced significantly compared with the non-treated control group by taking tissues of three different regions of earthworm, i.e., pre-clitellum, clitellum, and post-clitellum. The morphological analysis showed that the movement of earthworms was reduced compared to control groups. And a significant reduction in reproduction capability was also observed. These findings indicate that Triazophos causes severe toxic effects even at low doses. Therefore, such antagonistic situations may affect the survival of an eco-friendly non-targeted organism and the earthworm in a pesticide-contaminated environment.