Name a potential environmental concern associated with seed treatments.

• A. Increased pollinator health.
• B. Improved soil structure.
• C. Runoff or leaching of residues from treated seeds and potential impacts on non-target organisms.
• D. Reduced seedling vigor.

Answer: (C)

When seeds are coated with pesticides or fungicides, residues can persist in soil or dissolve in water. As rain or irrigation moves across the field, these residues may run off into surface water or leach toward groundwater. That movement exposes non-target organisms—such as aquatic invertebrates, fish, beneficial soil microbes, and other wildlife—to chemicals that were meant to protect the seed. This environmental exposure is a primary concern with seed treatments because it links the treatment directly to potential harm beyond the target crop.

The other options describe benefits or outcomes related to plant performance rather than environmental exposure. Increased pollinator health and improved soil structure are positive effects, while reduced seedling vigor is an agronomic issue rather than an environmental contamination concern.