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Phytoplankton bioassays for evaluating toxicity of in situ sediment contaminants

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Abstract

Routine bulk chemical characterization of sediments does not provide useful information on toxicity of sediment bound contaminants. This study reviewed and evaluated the utility of phytoplankton bioassays for evaluation of toxicity of sediment bound contaminants, including state-of-the-art techniques. Several techniques such as Algal Fractionation Bioassays, microcomputer-based toxicity testing and in situ bioassays including plankton cages have been developed and successfully applied in our research at various contaminated sites in the St. Lawrence Great Lakes. These bioassay techniques are sensitive, rapid and inexpensive for screening contaminants. The use and application of such techniques, based on bioavailability and physiological response of micro-organisms, are essential for the detection of environmental perturbations of an ecosystem. Such an early warning system will facilitate the preservation and rehabilitation of the Great Lakes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Fisheries & Oceans Canada, Great Lakes Fisheries Research Branch Canada Centre for Inland Waters, L7R 4A6, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

    M. Munawar

  2. Plankton Canada, 685 Inverary Road, L7L 2L8, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

    I. F. Munawar

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  1. M. Munawar
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  2. I. F. Munawar
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Munawar, M., Munawar, I.F. Phytoplankton bioassays for evaluating toxicity of in situ sediment contaminants. Hydrobiologia 149, 87–105 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00048650

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