Sediment Toxicity Testing

Abstract

Sediment toxicity testing has become a fundamental component of regulatory frameworks for assessing the risks posed by contaminated sediments and for development of chemical sediment quality guidelines. Over the past two decades, sediment toxicity testing methods have advanced considerably, with tests now providing greater environmental relevance. There is better understanding of species sensitivity to contaminants, organism behavior, exposure pathways, and design considerations necessary to provide relevant exposure conditions. Advances in our understanding of how chemical bioavailability influences toxicity, and the increased range of sublethal endpoints used for assessment, have resulted in the need for improved guidance on how to design tests, what to measure and monitor, and how to interpret results to achieve sound test outcomes. This chapter describes important considerations and procedures for sediment toxicity testing in estuarine and marine environments.