Microbial degradation of the herbicide atrazine and its 2-hydroxy analog in submerged soils

Results are reported of studies on the microbial degradation of atrazine and its hydrolysis product hydroxy-atrazine under limited aeration conditions similar to those occurring in bottom deposits, and also under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Complete breakdown of atrazine is likely to be slower in submerged deposits than in aerated soils because of the higher pH value and limited aeration of the sediments, but it is unlikely that this and similar compounds will be hazardous pollutants in shallow waters.