The effect of organotin pesticides on components of the biosphere is d
iscussed. Physical methods were used to investigate the hydrolysis of
organotin compounds in water at pHs from 3 to 12 and in the soil, thei
r distribution over the profile as a function of soil type and microfl
ora, and their leaching from soil columns. The residual amounts of org
anotin pesticides in agricultural products were determined.