The Effects of DDT and Malathion upon Forest Soil Microarthropods1

Abstract

Throughout a one-year period a study was conducted to determine the effects of plot treatments of DDT and malathion on beneficial forest soil mites and Collembola. Twenty-four plots were established in each of two habitats, a red pine plantation and a mixed hardwood stand. Six different treatments were replicated four times in each habitat. Two collections before treatment and seven collections after treatment in each habitat over a one-year period resulted in data to which all analysis of variance could he applied. The application of DDT at concentrations used 10 times in excess of that used in current forest past control programs and malathion used at the rate of 2 pounds per acre are without harm to the organisms studied.