What is an indication of higher toxicity in a pesticide?

A higher capacity to cause injury is a clear indication of increased toxicity in a pesticide. Toxicity refers to the potential of a substance to cause harm or adverse effects, and pesticides are no exception. When a pesticide is capable of causing significant harm, it is considered to have a higher toxicity level. This means that even at relatively low exposure levels, it can lead to serious health effects in humans, animals, or the environment.

The formulation's stability, cost, and shelf life do not directly correlate with toxicity. While a more stable formulation can enhance safety during storage and handling or a longer shelf life might imply better persistence in environments, these factors do not inherently determine the toxicological profile of the pesticide. Additionally, the cost of a pesticide is influenced by various market factors and production technologies but does not reflect its safety or toxicity level. Thus, understanding the capacity of a substance to cause injury is crucial in assessing its potential risks.