Influence of endrin on soil microbial populations and their activity.

Abstract

Endrin applied to soil at rates of more than three times the maximum that might be expected from application of endrin-treated tree seed exerted no appreciable effect on numbers of soil microbes or on ammonification, nitrification, or sulfur oxidation. The decomposition of soil organic matter, as indicated by the production of CO₂, was increased significantly in the presence of endrin. Results of our study agree substantially with other studies, indicating that a very high rate of endrin in soil would be necessary to alter microbial properties. We conclude that the relatively insignificant amount of endrin formulation applied to forest soil from coated tree seed is unlikely to damage soil microbes and their activities.

Citation

Bollen, W.B.; Tu, C.M. 1971. Influence of endrin on soil microbial populations and their activity. Res. Pap. PNW-RP-114. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 9 p