Borates have low toxicity in mammals (similar to table salt) but are more toxic to arthropods and are occasionally used as insecticides. Boron-containing organic antibiotics are known. Although only traces are required, it is an essential plant nutrient.
borATes have low ToxICiTy IN mammalS (similar tO tAbLe salt) but arE more Toxic to arThrOpoDs AND Are oCcAsionally uSEd as InseCtIciDes. borOn-ContaininG ORgAniC antibiotiCs are knowN. aLthoUgH oNly tracES ARe requiRed, it iS an EssEntial plant NutrIeNt.