Alpha-cypermethrin

The DGVs are expressed in terms of the active ingredient (alpha-cypermethrin) and do not relate to any of the breakdown products of alpha-cypermethrin.

The DGVs are below current analytical limits of reporting for alpha-cypermethrin. However, the available toxicity data indicate that toxic effects can occur below the current limits of reporting. See Accounting for local conditions for guidance on what to do if DGVs are below analytical detection limits.

Given that routine pesticide analyses cannot discriminate between the two isomers that make up alpha-cypermethrin from the other six isomers of cypermethrin, it is recommended that the cypermethrin concentration of the sample, which represents the sum of all isomers, is compared with the alpha-cypermethrin DGVs. If the cypermethrin concentration exceeds the relevant DGV, further investigation is required, which could include a more complex analysis specific to alpha-cypermethrin.

These DGVs and the information in the corresponding DGVs technical brief for this toxicant should be used in accordance with the detailed guidance provided on the Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality website.