mirex
/ˈmaɪrɛks/
noun
- A white, crystalline synthetic insecticide that was used to control fire ants and other pests, but is now banned in many countries because it is toxic and does not break down easily in the environment.
- Farmers once used mirex to protect their crops from ants, but it was later found to be harmful to wildlife.
- Scientists are still finding traces of mirex in soil and water decades after it was last used.
- The government banned mirex after studies showed it could build up in the food chain.