Aquatic ecotoxicology: Fundamental concepts and methodologies. Volume II

Book · Sun Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1989

OSTI ID:5872381

Boudou, A; Ribeyre, F ^[1]

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1. ed.

Research into ecotoxicology can be classified into three fundamental concerns: abiotic factors, which characterize the physicochemistry of environments; biotic factors, relating to biological structures and functions; and contamination factors, which define the modes of pollution of ecosystems. The most significant research methodologies currently being developed in aquatic ecotoxicology are presented, specifically experimental approaches in the laboratory. Among the main research methodologies developed in the laboratory a distinction was made according to the biological supports used: (1) ecotoxicological models. Their chief objective is to show the effect of interspecific relationships on the transfer of contaminants and their effects: linear transfer models and interactive models; and (2) mono-specific approaches. This approach gives access to the fundamental mechanisms of bioaccumulation and the dysfunctions that can be induced at organism, cell, of even molecule level. This approach can also be useful in perfecting toxicological tests to estimate the possible risks from using new molecules, from modifying the environment, etc. of the genetic effects of the contamination of aquatic systems is presented. A comparative analysis of the principal methodologies used in aquatic ecotoxicology, draws conclusions about the relative merits and limitations of each. Mathematical modeling is a synthetic method with which it is possible to describe, and even predict, the fate of contaminants in natural systems. The devising of the different mathematical models is illustrated by examples, accompanied by a critical analysis of their structure and use, and a description of their contribution in the decision making processes. Separate abstracts are included for 9 chapters in this book for inclusion in the appropriate data bases.

• OSTI ID: 5872381
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
540320* -- Environment
Aquatic-- Chemicals Monitoring & Transport-- (1990-)
560300 -- Chemicals Metabolism & Toxicology
63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
ABSTRACTS
AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS
BIOLOGICAL ACCUMULATION
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
CONTAMINATION
DATA ACQUISITION
DOCUMENT TYPES
ECOSYSTEMS
FORECASTING
GENETIC EFFECTS
LEADING ABSTRACT
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
POLLUTION
RISK ASSESSMENT
TOXICITY
WATER POLLUTION