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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Effect of exposure method on benthic organism responses

Conference ·
OSTI ID:458319
;  [1]
  1. Wright State Univ., Dayton, OH (United States). Biological Sciences Dept.
Organism response to non-polar organics and inorganic contaminants is affected by the route and method of exposure. Little data exists, however, on the effect of different exposures on freshwater benthic and epibenthic organisms. The amphipod, Hyalella azteca and the oligochaete, Lumbriculus variegatus were exposed to contaminated sediments and overlying waters in the laboratory using traditional static-renewal exposure systems as well as in situ using different exposure chamber designs. Laboratory and field exposures were compared, focusing on survival and tissue residues of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Responses of test organisms were compared also to indigenous species. Results showed that laboratory and in situ exposures differ frequently, but optimal exposure systems are possible which reduce uncertainty in risk or hazard assessments that predict toxicity or bioaccumulation.
OSTI ID:
458319
Report Number(s):
CONF-961149--
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English