On October 22, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published its final biological evaluations (BEs) assessing the ecological risks of the insecticide acetamiprid, specifically its effects on endangered species and their habitats. The EPA's evaluation revealed that acetamiprid may adversely affect numerous federally listed species and critical habitats, identifying further mitigation needs.
Evaluation Process and Key Findings
The EPA's biological evaluation examined acetamiprid's potential impact on over 1,700 species and 944 critical habitats, particularly focusing on endangered or threatened animals and plants. The evaluation was part of a comprehensive registration review of acetamiprid under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), also addressing the Endangered Species Act (ESA) obligations. The BE highlighted concerns over acetamiprid’s risks to bird species, terrestrial invertebrates, and aquatic organisms due to runoff and spray drift.
Impact on Listed Species and Habitats
The EPA's BE concluded that acetamiprid may adversely affect (LAA) more than 1,100 listed species and nearly 400 critical habitats. Some species, such as the Yuma Ridgeways Rail and Streaked Horned Lark, are predicted to face jeopardy, while adverse habitat modification was identified for species including the Whooping Crane and Yellow-billed Cuckoo.
Stakeholder Responses
Comments from stakeholders, including the American Bird Conservancy (ABC) and Center for Biological Diversity (CBD), raised concerns about acetamiprid’s potential reproductive harm to birds at low exposure levels and its effect on aquatic food sources for endangered species. They urged the EPA to prioritise avoidance over minimisation to protect at-risk species. The ABC cited studies showing that even minimal acetamiprid doses can significantly reduce sperm quality in birds, leading to population impacts.
Implications and Next Steps
The EPA's final BE is set to inform further consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). These consultations will determine whether acetamiprid use aligns with conservation standards under the ESA, potentially leading to additional mitigation measures to reduce harm to species and habitats.
