True or False: Persistent pesticides always accumulate in animals or plants.

The correct answer is based on the understanding of how persistent pesticides interact with the environment and biological systems. Persistent pesticides are designed to remain effective for a long time, resisting degradation by sunlight, moisture, and microbial activity. However, this does not imply that they will always accumulate in animals or plants.

In fact, accumulation—also known as bioaccumulation—depends largely on the chemical properties of the pesticide, the specific organism, and environmental factors. Not all persistent pesticides exhibit bioaccumulation; some may degrade in certain conditions or may not be taken up significantly by organisms. Furthermore, factors such as the metabolic processes of the organism and its exposure level play critical roles in determining whether a pesticide accumulates.

Thus, while some persistent pesticides have the potential to accumulate, it is not a blanket truth that they always do so across all species or environmental contexts. This understanding is crucial for responsible pest management and environmental safety.