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751-4902-00L 2 Credits MSC D-USYS , D-HEST
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Modern Pesticides - Mode of Action, Residues and Environmental Fate

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Thomas Poiger, Dr. Ignaz Josef Bürge, Dr. Marianne Elisabeth Balmer
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:32:51

Abstract

The biochemical principles of the mode of action of current use plant protection products (PPP) are presented. Important topics are mechanisms for selectivity, development of resistance, residue formation in crops and food safety as well as behavior in the environment.

Objective

The structures and modes of action of current use pesticides (synthetical compounds, natural compounds) are presented. The structure-activity relationships lead to considerations of actual use conditions in crops such as fungicides in viticulture, residues in edible parts of treated plants, possible side effects and environmental fate.

Content

After a short introduction on pesticide registration (administrative process as in Switzerland and EC, food safety), the biochemical background of the mode of action of important groups of current use PPP active ingredients is presented. Furthermore, selectivity of pesticides, leaching of herbicides to groundwater, accumulation of pesticides in soil, development of resistance of fungicides, formation of residues in edible parts of the crops, and side-effects on non-target organisms shall be covered.

Resources

Lecture Notes

An e-script (pdf-files) is provided as download at the beginning of spring term.

Literature

none

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Mode
written 60 minutes
Aids
use of the lecture notes and own notes and summaries are allowed; electronic devices are not permitted.
written exam; use of the script and own notes are allowed; electronic devices are not permitted.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Modern Pesticides - Mode of Action, Residues and Environmental Fate
  • Wed 10:15-12:00 (HG D 5.2)
2 h weekly

Offered In