ISSN:
1573-5117
Keywords:
biotest
;
brackish
;
Gracilaria
;
growth inhibition
;
marine
;
photosynthesis
;
Rhodophyta
;
seaweed
;
toxicity
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract A growth inhibition test method was developed using the macroalga Gracilaria tenuistipitata as the test organism. This alga was chosen because of its high laboratory growth rates, commonly 30–40% d−1, which are reached in salinities between 5 and 40‰, and its epiphyte resistance. The toxicity of a number of substances, including heavy metals, herbicides and complex wastewaters towards the alga was assayed. Anti-fouling paints were tested with a modification of the method. EC50 values for heavy metals varied between 0.05 and 17 mg l−1 and for herbicides between 0.002 and 0.02 mg l−l. The sensitivity to the toxicant was generally higher at low salinity. Omitting nitrogen and phosphorus additions to the test medium increased the sensitivity and a semi-static performance was possible with maintained or increased sensitivity. Preliminary tests done with a computerised photosynthesis inhibition method produced promising results. In conclusion, this is a simple, sensitive and reproducible test method for assessing the toxicity of substances, wastewaters and anti-fouling paints in brackish and marine environments.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00047825
