Mathematical model for microbial degradation of pesticides in the soil

Abstract

A theoretical model for the microbial degradation of pesticides in soil is presented. This model takes into account an important soil property, the adsorption capacity, and the probable modification of the soil microflora after the pesticide was introduced into the soil. The main assumptions of the model are that: (1) the degradation takes place simultaneously in two ways, by metabolism and by co-metabolism; (2) the pesticide exhibits a lethal effect on a sensitive fraction of the soil microflora; (3) a fraction of this microflora is insensitive and does not degrade the pesticide; (4) the various fractions of the soil microflora can grow at the expense of both the pesticide and soil carbon (metabolizing microorganisms) or of the soil carbon alone (co-metabolizing, sensitive and insensitive microbial populations). Two numerical examples are given to illustrate the soil adaptation phenomenon. The validity of different hypotheses included in the model when applied to the soil system are discussed by comparing the results of the simulations to some experimental data concerning the modification of the degrading soil microflora or by comparing some physico-chemical and biological parameter values used in the calculations to published values.