Assessment of biochemical fate of Metaldehyde

Abstract

Metaldehyde is a selective molluscicide used in agricultural sector to control slugs and snails. The formulation of Metaldehyde is commonly 2 % to 3 % active ingredient and may be as high as 7.5%. The active ingredient is acetaldehyde. Excessive use of Metaldehyde leads to deterioration of soil and water quality. This study has been conducted to detect the presence of Metaldehyde in water as well as to determine the biochemical pathway of Metaldehyde. The method used in this study were FTIR, GC – MS and UV – Vis. Those method was applied and has managed to confirm the presence of Metaldehyde in water. GC –MS was chosen as the best method used to detect the existence of Metaldehyde in water. The biochemical pathway of Metaldehyde was identified in this study. Metaldehyde degraded into Acetaldehyde during depolymerization process with the help of alcohol dehydrogenase. Aldehyde dehydrogenase assists the oxidation process of Acetaldehyde into Acetic acid. In conclusion, the main objective of this study was successfully achieved. Some recommendation was provide for improvement.