What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth is a remarkable, all-natural product made from tiny fossilized water plants. It is a naturally occurring siliceous sedimentary mineral compound from microscopic skeletal remains of unicellular algae-like plants called diatoms. These plants have been part of the earth’s ecology since prehistoric times and it is believed that 30 million years ago the diatoms built up into deep, chalky deposits of diatomite located and mined in a number of locations across the globe.
In Pest Control this fine powder absorbs lipids from the waxy outer layer of insects’ exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate. Arthropods die as a result of the water deficiency, and in some cases the powder works against gastropods such as in the garden to defeat slugs however in moist or humid environments and the effects are hindered.
Pool grade Diatomaceous Earth is chemically treated and partially melted and consequently contains crystalline silica which can be a big respiratory hazard.
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Thus, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT ONLY NATURAL DIATOMACEOUS EARTH BE USED FOR INSECT CONTROL.[vimar_seo_links]
The non-crystalline silica is not as hazardous as the human body can dissolve it.Using Diamaeceous earth for different insects can present different challanges for each, most notably, the length of time for it to start working and if used outside, humidity and moisture considerations. Please contact Critter Get Ritter anytime for how to apply Diatomeceous Earth correctly.