← Elaine Ingham · Research and publications
Narrow-spectrum biocides, wider effects in soil
Ingham’s review assembled evidence on twelve biocides and asked which organism groups each substance actually affects.
Review published:
The research question
The review examines substances used to reduce particular soil groups so their ecological roles could be studied. It covers bactericides, fungicides, nematicides and insecticides, including streptomycin, captan, carbofuran and benomyl. [1]
The evidence assembled
For each of the twelve substances, effects on more than one organism group had been reported. Ingham tabulated responses, connecting effectiveness against target groups with effects on the wider soil community. [1]
A question that still matters
Assessing an intervention involves what happens around its intended target. Fungi, bacteria and their consumers are linked through feeding relationships. A change can influence other system functions.
How the review helps
The work provides a historical foundation for studying particular substances. Today, each active ingredient needs its own evidence, including dose, conditions and monitoring duration. That supports a specific discussion about protecting soil life.
Sources and references
- Ingham, E.R. (1985). Review of the effects of 12 selected biocides on target and non-target soil organisms. Crop Protection, 4(1), 3–32. DOI: 10.1016/0261-2194(85)90002-X Original publication and study record