[Embryotoxic and teratogenic action of dichlorvos (organophosphate insecticide) on the development of the quail embryo].

Incubation of quail embryos in a DDVP-enriched atmosphere (0,002 18 mg dichlorvos/m3 air) reveals both embryotoxic and teratogenic effects of this pesticide. The embryos surviving beyond the 5th day were affected with multiple malformations associated to those ascribed to an anticholinesterase action: lordosis, scoliosis... Although incubation chambers were ventilated twice a day, the results can be modulated according to the nature (aluminium, plastic, cardboard) of the boxes which were used.