Publication Abstract

Incorporation of in situ and biomarker assays in higher tier assessment of the aquatic toxicity of pesticides

D.S. Maycock, M.M. Prenner, R. Kheir, S. Morris, A. Callaghan, P. Whitehouse, D. Morritt and M. Crane

This study was designed to test the feasibility of integrating in situ single species exposures and biomarker analysis into microcosm studies. Experimental ponds were dosed with pirimiphos methyl and lindane. C. riparius 4th instar larvae were deployed for 48 h on 9 separate occasions during the study period. Surviving larvae were analyzed for acetylcholinesterase activity. Survival and biomarker data were compared to chironomid assemblage analysis assessed by monitoring insects emerging from the microcosms. The in situ bioassay was able to demonstrate gradual reduction in toxicity within the sediment before this was evident from macroinvertebrate monitoring. The use of in situ bioassays could also aid comparison of microcosm studies by adding a standardized dimension.

Reference:

D.S. Maycock, M.M. Prenner, R. Kheir, S. Morris, A. Callaghan, P. Whitehouse, D. Morritt and M. Crane, 2003. Incorporation of in situ and biomarker assays in higher tier assessment of the aquatic toxicity of pesticides. Water Research, 37(17): 4180-4190.