Sodium monofluoroacetate and alternative toxins for possum control

Abstract

Sodium monofluoroacetate (1080) is still an essential tool for possum control. We have reassessed the fate of this compound in the environment, and found no evidence of water contamination after large-scale possum control operations. The toxin is biodegradable in all living systems and will not accumulate in the food chain. Nevertheless, overreliance on a single toxin for a particular pest, such as 1080 for possum control, is unwise, and we are evaluating alternatives. Possums are susceptible to some non-anticoagulant toxins, including gliftor, cholecalciferol, calciferol, and alpha-chloralose. Of the anticoagulant toxins, brodifacoum is more effective than pindone. Integrated pen and field trials will determine the most cost-effective alternatives to 1080 for use in bait stations and for aerial application. Any alternative toxin will need to be subjected to the same scrutiny as 1080 for its environmental fate and impact on non-target species. © 1993 The Royal Society of New Zealand.