> "There are some reports that oxalic acid may damage bee Malpighian tubules"

>This is interesting. There is no indication from where these reports
have come, or their credibility.  Does anyone have any real
information?

I don't know whether or not oxalic damages Malpighian tubules, but it
would hardly seem implausible or even surprising. This system is
analogous to the kidney and bladder system in animals, which is
notably sensitive to oxalic acid, among other things.

>> Malpighian tubules secrete primary urine, most of which is passed
into the hindgut where water, ions and essential metabolites are
reabsorbed before the fluid is excreted.

* Oxalic Acid may damage the kidneys and cause kidney stones.
* Exposure to Oxalic Acid may affect the nervous system.
* Oxalic Acid is CORROSIVE and contact can severely irritate and burn
the skin and eyes with possible eye damage.
* Breathing Oxalic Acid can irritate the nose, throat and lungs
causing coughing, wheezing and/or shortness of breath.
* Exposure can cause headache, vomiting, stomach pain, weakness,
seizures, coma and death.

-- 
Peter L. Borst

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