What characterizes systemic effects of pesticides?

The systemic effects of pesticides are characterized by their ability to be absorbed and distributed throughout the organism's body. When a pesticide is systemic, it means that once it enters the organism—whether through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption—it travels beyond the initial point of contact, impacting various systems and organs. This distribution can lead to effects that might arise far from the site of initial absorption, affecting the overall health and functioning of the organism.

This characteristic distinguishes systemic effects from localized effects, which would only manifest at or near the site of contact without affecting the rest of the body. Understanding this concept is critical for evaluating the potential risks and impacts of pesticide exposure, especially in agricultural and environmental contexts. Thus, the systematic nature of these effects highlights the importance of considering the entire organism when assessing pesticide safety and efficacy.