DDT stands for dichloro-diphenyl-trichloro-ethane. DDT is an insecticide/pesticide previously used on crops. DDT was also used during World War II in order to control malaria by controlling the mosquito population.
DDT has an adverse impact on many organisms such as crayfish, fish, shrimp, and other marine animals. The effect of eggshell thinning has the largest impact on birds. The thinning of the bird’s eggs causes the eggs to crack before the young birds have a change to mature inside the egg and hatch fully developed. Thus, the thinning of the bird’s shells decreases the bird’s reproduction rate and population. Examples of birds that have been affected by this include the brown eagle, bald eagle, and osprey.
DDT affects humans as well. In humans, DDT is considered an endocrine disruptor and carcinogen.
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