API PUBL 4632-1995

$20.15

Reducing Uncertainty in Laboratory Sediment Toxicity Tests

Published By	Publication Date	Number of Pages
API	1995	147

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Description

Many contaminants entering aquatic systems may accumulate in sufficient quantities in sediments to adversely impact benthic organisms. Laboratory sediment toxicity tests may be the most accurate means of determining whether or not these sediments are toxic to benthic communities. However, concerns have been expressed regarding the ability of existing laboratory sediment toxicity testing methods to accurately assess sediment toxicity. This report presents methods for improving laboratory sediment toxicity tests. A formulated reference sediment was developed that is suitable for survival, growth, and reproduction of commonly used sediment testing species. Copper sulfate was evaluated and found to be a suitable reference toxicant for sediment toxicity tests. Tolerances of Hyalella azteca and Chironomus tentans were determined for various particle size classes and organic matter content of sediments. This information can be used to reduce the likelihood of erroneously concluding that a sediment is toxic simply because the sediment is incompatible with test organisms. h evaluation of the relative sensitivities of commonly used sediment testing organisms and sublethal endpoints using a copper-contaminated sediment indicated that test duration, species selection, and test endpoint can influence test results. These data provide a means for increasing the accuracy of sediment toxicity test results.

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