Acaricide Use in the Mara Region and Its Implications for Wildlife Populations and Conservation: A Scientific and Policy Analysis Abstract The widespread use of acaricides in livestock production across the Maasai Mara ecosystem has significantly improved tick control and livestock productivity. However, increasing evidence suggests that acaricide residues and misuse pose substantial risks to wildlife populations and conservation outcomes. This paper examines the environmental fate, ecological impacts, and conservation implications of commonly used acaricides in the Mara region. It integrates toxicology, wildlife ecology, and socio-economic drivers to assess how chemical tick control strategies influence biodiversity, trophic interactions, and ecosystem stability. The paper concludes with policy recommendations aimed at balancing livestock health with conservation priorities. 1. Introduction The Mara-Serengeti ecosystem is one of the most biologically diverse regions in Af...
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Downstream Implications of Acetamiprid Decay on Fish Production in Lake Victoria : A Scientific and Policy Analysis Abstract Acetamiprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide widely applied in African agriculture, undergoes environmental degradation into metabolites that may retain biological activity and persistence in aquatic systems. In the Lake Victoria basin, diffuse agricultural runoff introduces both parent compounds and transformation products into freshwater ecosystems. This paper examines the downstream implications of acetamiprid decay on fish production through integrated analysis of environmental chemistry, aquatic toxicology, and fisheries ecology. Evidence suggests that chronic exposure to acetamiprid metabolites contributes to endocrine disruption, trophic instability, and reduced fish reproductive success. The study highlights significant policy gaps and proposes an integrated basin-level regulatory framework. 1. Introduction Lake Victoria is central to East Africa’...
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Acetamiprid Use, Resistance Dynamics, and Sustainability in Africa: A Scientific and Policy Analysis Abstract Acetamiprid, a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide, plays a central role in modern pest management due to its systemic properties and broad-spectrum efficacy. However, its extensive application has accelerated the emergence of resistance in key pest populations and raised concerns regarding ecological integrity, food safety, and long-term agricultural sustainability. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of acetamiprid’s biochemical action, agronomic utility, resistance evolution, and environmental-health impacts. It further situates these issues within African agricultural systems, where regulatory limitations and high pest pressure intensify misuse risks. The paper proposes a multi-layered policy framework emphasizing integrated pest management (IPM), resistance surveillance, regulatory reform, and ecosystem-based approaches. 1. Introduction The increasing...
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Newspaper Ink Chemicals and Food Wrapping Risks: Scientific and Policy Analysis Abstract The use of newspapers for wrapping food remains common in many low- and middle-income countries due to cost, availability, and convenience. However, newspaper inks contain a complex mixture of chemicals, including mineral oils, heavy metals, pigments, solvents, and additives, some of which are potentially toxic, carcinogenic, or endocrine-disrupting. This paper examines the chemical composition of newspaper inks, mechanisms of migration into food, exposure pathways, and associated health risks. It further evaluates regulatory gaps and proposes policy interventions to reduce exposure while maintaining affordability and practicality in food systems. 1. Introduction Food safety is a cornerstone of public health. While attention is often focused on microbial contamination, chemical contamination from packaging materials is an underrecognized risk. The use of newspapers for wrapping cooked or hot ...