Which statement about earthworms and broad-spectrum insecticides is supported by the material?

• A. Earthworms thrive when such insecticides are used
• B. Earthworms are never affected by such insecticides
• C. They can harm earthworms
• D. They have no impact on earthworms

Answer: (C)

Broad-spectrum insecticides affect a wide range of organisms, not just the target pests. In soil, earthworms can be exposed through contact with treated material, ingestion of contaminated matter, or uptake of residues, which can be toxic to them. This exposure can disrupt their physiology or survival, so the material supports the idea that they can harm earthworms. Earthworms are important for soil structure and nutrient cycling, so harming them has ecological consequences. The other statements—earthworms thriving, never affected, or having no impact—aren’t supported by the material, which indicates potential harm.