Zinc phosphide is a chemical compound that is used as a rodenticide, which is a substance used to kill rodents such as rats and mice. It is a grey to black powder and is often used in the form of pellets or bait. When ingested, zinc phosphide reacts with the stomach acid to produce phosphine gas, which is toxic to the rodent.
Zinc phosphide is considered to be a relatively effective rodenticide and is widely used in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings. It is often used to control rodent populations in grain storage facilities, warehouses, and homes.
However, zinc phosphide can be toxic to other animals as well, especially if they consume baits or carcasses of the poisoned rodents. Additionally, it is also toxic to humans if inhaled or ingested. Therefore, it’s important to handle and store zinc phosphide in a safe manner, and to follow all label instructions and safety precautions when using it.
It is also important to note that the use of rodenticides should be integrated with other rodent management practices like sanitation, exclusion and habitat modification to achieve long-term and sustainable control of rodent populations.
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