What does toxicity of a pesticide refer to?

Toxicity of a pesticide specifically refers to its capacity to cause harm or injury to living organisms, whether that be in the short term or long term. This encompasses a range of effects that the pesticide can have on non-target species, including humans, wildlife, and beneficial insects. Understanding toxicity is critical for ensuring the safe use of pesticides, as it helps in assessing risks associated with exposure and determining appropriate application methods to minimize harm.

In contrast, the effectiveness of the pesticide in killing pests pertains to its performance and ability to achieve its intended pest management outcomes, which is a separate consideration from its toxicity. The amount of pesticide required for application speaks to dosage rates and economic factors rather than the inherent harmful properties of the chemical. Lastly, the environmental impact involves the broader implications of pesticide use on ecosystems, including potential contamination of soil and water, but does not directly address the toxicity of the pesticide itself to individual organisms. Thus, the focus of toxicity is primarily on the injury it can inflict.