Which values are useful for comparing the systemic toxicity of different pesticides?

The comparison of systemic toxicity among different pesticides is effectively done using the values LC50 and LD50. Both of these metrics provide critical insights into the toxicity profile of a substance but apply to different contexts.

LD50, or lethal dose for 50% of the population, is a measure used to assess the acute toxicity of a pesticide when administered via ingestion, absorption, or other routes in small doses. This value indicates the amount of pesticide required to kill half of a test population, typically expressed in milligrams of substance per kilogram of body weight (mg/kg).

On the other hand, LC50 refers to the lethal concentration for 50% of the population and is commonly used for assessing inhalation toxicity. It indicates the concentration of pesticide in air (or another medium) that results in death to half of a specific test population after a specified period.

By using both LC50 and LD50, pesticide applicators can gain a comprehensive understanding of a pesticide's systemic toxicity, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding safety, application methods, and potential environmental impacts. The relationship between these two metrics offers a more detailed picture of a pesticide’s risk profile for various exposure scenarios. Thus, the combination of these two values is essential for comparing the systemic toxicity of