Cadmium toxicity for terrestrial invertebrates: taking soil parameters affecting bioavailability into account

Ecological risk threshold for chromium in Chinese soils and its prediction models

The derivation of chromium (Cr) ecological risk thresholds in soils remains limited, despite their importance as measurement standards and indicators for enacting soil protection policies. In this study, toxicity of Cr in soil to different species was tested based on Log-Logistic dose-effect relationship. On this basis, combined with Cr toxicity measurement data in literature, the ecological risk threshold HC5 for protecting 95% species safety in soils with different properties was obtained by fitting species sensitivity distribution curve (SSD). This research collected various Cr toxicological data from Chinese cropland soils, based on 31 different endpoints covering soil fauna, functional indicators of microorganisms, terrestrial plants, etc., sourced from both our laboratory and existing literature. We applied the SSD method to estimate the hazardous concentration of Cr for HC5 and ultimately established a predictive model according to HC5 and different soil properties. As a result, the EC10 (an effective concentration of Cr resulting in 10% suppression of terminal biological activity) based on 7 different soils and 4 endpoints ranged from 16.8 to 148.0 mg kg-1, and the hormesis of Cr induction reached up to 109%. Overall, the toxicity (EC10) to microorganisms was much lower, while it was higher for graminoids. All the toxicity data were corrected through an aging factor with up to 540 days of equilibration before fitting the SSD curves. After that, a prediction model considering HC5 values and soil properties was established as LogHC5 = 3.003LogpH +0.651LogOC +0.013LogCEC - 0.476. The model was well-verified in field experiments, as the actual and predicted values fell within a 2-fold error range. This approach offers a rigorous scientific foundation for determining the Cr ecological risk threshold and could be important for the conservation of ecological species in soils.

Cadmium toxicity to and accumulation in a soil collembolan (Folsomia candida): major factors and prediction using a back-propagation neural network model

Accurate prediction of cadmium (Cd) ecotoxicity to and accumulation in soil biota is important in soil health. However, very limited information on Cd ecotoxicity on naturally contaminated soils. Herein, we investigated soil Cd ecotoxicity using Folsomia candida, a standard single-species test animal, in 28 naturally Cd-contaminated soils, and the back-propagation neural network (BPNN) model was used to predict Cd ecotoxicity to and accumulation in F. candida. Soil total Cd and pH were the primary soil properties affecting Cd toxicity. However, soil pH was the main factor when the total Cd concentration was < 3 mg kg-1. Interestingly, correlation analysis and the K-spiked test confirmed nutrient potassium (K) was essential for Cd accumulation, highlighting the significance of studying K in Cd accumulation. The BPNN model showed greater prediction accuracy of collembolan survival rate (R2 = 0.797), reproduction inhibitory rate (R2 = 0.827), body Cd concentration (R2 = 0.961), and Cd bioaccumulation factor (R2 = 0.964) than multiple linear regression models. Then the developed BPNN model was used to predict Cd ecological risks in 57 soils in southern China. Compared to multiple linear regression models, the BPNN models can better identify high-risk regions. This study highlights the potential of BPNN as a novel and rapid tool for the evaluation and monitoring of Cd ecotoxicity in naturally contaminated soils.

Aging factor and its prediction models of chromium ecotoxicity in soils with various properties

Aging of pollutants determines bioavailability and toxicity thresholds of environmental pollutants in soil. However, the ecotoxicity of chromium (Cr) rarely considers the effect of aging as well as soil properties. In order to explore the aging characteristics and establish their quantitative relationship with different soil properties, this study selected 7 soils with different properties through exogenous addition of Cr and determined its toxicity on barley root elongation. From 14d to 540d, EC₁₀ and EC₅₀ of barley root elongation ranged from 21.40 to 312.52 (mg·kg^-1) and 50.15 to 883.88 (mg·kg^-1) respectively. The hormesis appeared in the dose-response curve of acid soil as relative barley root elongation reached >110 % compared with the control. Extended aging time of Cr from 14d to 540d was associated with the attenuation of the toxicity of Cr, as the aging factor increased from 1.26 to 6.09 for EC₅₀, from 0.88 to 4.98 for EC₁₀. The prediction model of AF_EC50 and soil properties is lg (AF_360d) = 0.306lg Clay+0.026lg CEC + 0.240 (R² = 0.872, P < 0.01). The results demonstrated that with the extension of aging time, the toxicity of Cr decreased at 360d and reached a slow reaction stage, after that soil OC, Clay and CEC could well explain the aging procedure of Cr (VI). These results are beneficial for risk assessment of Cr contaminated soils and establishment of a soil environmental quality criteria for Cr.

The Adsorption and Aging Process of Cadmium and Chromium in Soil Micro-aggregates

The particle size and components of soil aggregates have played important roles in the migration and transformation of heavy metals. The present study focused on the adsorption behavior and aging characteristics of cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) in various granular aggregates and soil components, which were studied by analyzing the adsorption isotherm, adsorption kinetics, and heavy metal speciation distribution. The results showed that, compared with other aggregates, clay aggregates (0-0.002 mm) had the strongest adsorption effect on Cd and Cr and that there was no significant positive correlation between the adsorption amount and the particle size of aggregates for Cd and Cr. In general, the influence of three components on Cd was organic matter > amorphous iron > free iron oxide, and the influence on Cr was free iron oxide > amorphous iron > organic matter. The adsorption isotherm showed that the correlation coefficient of the Langmuir model (R² ) was higher than that of the Freundlich model (R² ), indicating that the adsorption of Cd and Cr by soil aggregates can be well described by the Langmuir model with monolayer adsorption behavior. Kinetic adsorption studies showed that quasi-first-order kinetics and quasi-second-order kinetics were more consistent with the actual adsorption amounts of Cd and Cr in soil aggregates, respectively. At the same time, the forms of Cd and Cr gradually transformed from unstable to stable after entering the soil. After 60 days, Cd was mainly oxidized, and residual, and Cr was mainly reduced and residual. These results provide a theoretical basis for assessing the environmental risks of Cd and Cr and providing prevention and treatment methods. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:975-990. © 2022 SETAC.

The toxicity of hexavalent chromium to soil microbial processes concerning soil properties and aging time

Chromium (Cr) pollution has attracted much attention due to its biological toxicity. However, little is known regarding Cr toxicity to soil microorganisms. The present study assesses the toxicity of Cr(VI) on two microbial processes, potential nitrification rate (PNR) and substrate-induced respiration (SIR), in a wide range of agricultural soils and detected the abundance of soil bacteria, fungi, ammonia-oxidizing bacteria and archaea. The toxicity thresholds of 10% and 50% effective concentrations (EC₁₀ and EC₅₀) for PNR varied by 32.18- and 38.66-fold among different soils, while for SIR they varied by 391.21- and 16.31-fold, respectively. Regression model analysis indicated that for PNR, CEC as a single factor explained 27% of the variation in EC₁₀, with soil clay being the key factor explaining 47.3% of the variation in EC₅₀. For SIR, organic matter and pH were found to be the most vital predictors for EC₁₀ and EC₅₀, explaining 34% and 61.1% of variation, respectively. In addition, extended aging time was found to significantly attenuate the toxicity of Cr on PNR. SIR was mainly driven by total bacteria rather than fungi, while PNR was driven by both AOA and AOB. These results were helpful in deriving soil Cr toxicity threshold based on microbial processes, and provided a theoretical foundation for ecological risk assessments and establishing a soil environmental quality criteria for Cr.

Applying the diffusive gradient in thin films method to assess soil mercury bioavailability to the earthworm Eisenia fetida

This study assessed the critical soil characteristics affecting mercury (Hg) bioavailability to the earthworm Eisenia fetida using the diffusive gradient in thin films (DGT) method. The soil samples were collected from a tributary of the Hyeongsan River contaminated with industrial waste and landfill leachates called Gumu Creek. The Hg concentration in the soil had a range of 0.33-170 μg g^-1 (average 33 ± 56 μg g^-1), and the Hg concentration of earthworms incubated in the soils was 0.83-11 μg g^-1 (average 2.9 ± 3.2 μg g^-1). When correlation analysis was used to detect the key variables among the soil properties related to Hg accumulation in the soils, earthworms, and resins, the water-holding capacity, which is covaried with the organic matter content, was determined to be a primary factor in increasing Hg accumulation in the soils, earthworms, and resins. However, the experimentally determined earthworm bioaccumulation factor and the DGT accumulation factor were negatively affected by the water-holding capacity. Therefore, the water-holding capacity played a dual role in the Gumu Creek deposits: increasing the soil Hg concentration and decreasing Hg bioavailability and leachability. Further, the DGT-Hg flux was positively correlated with the Hg concentration in earthworms (r = 0.93). Although the earthworm accumulation of Hg is not processed by passive diffusion, this study proves that the DGT method is promising for predicting soil Hg bioavailability to the earthworm E. fetida, and the water-holding capacity simultaneously regulates Hg availability to the DGT and the earthworms.

Dose-dependent effects of lead and cadmium and the influence of soil properties on their uptake by Helix aspersa: an ecotoxicity test approach

Three soil types with different physicochemical properties were selected to evaluate their effect on lead and cadmium bioavailability and toxicity in the land snail Helix aspersa. In 28-day ecotoxicity tests, H. aspersa juveniles were exposed to increasing concentrations of Pb or Cd. EC50s, concentrations reducing snail growth by 50%, differed between the soils and so did Cd and Pb uptake in the snails. For lead, EC50s were 2397-6357 mg Pb/kg dry soil, while they ranged between 327 and 910 mg Cd/kg dry soil for cadmium. Toxicity and metal uptake were highest on the soil with the lowest pH, organic matter content and Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC). Growth reduction was correlated with metal accumulation levels in the snails' soft body, and differences in toxicity between the soils decreased when EC50s were expressed on the basis of internal metal concentrations in the snails. These results confirm the effect of soil properties; pH, CEC, OM content, on the uptake and growth effect of Pb and Cd in H. aspersa, indicating the importance of properly characterizing soils when assessing the environmental risk of metal contaminated sites.

Ecological risk assessment of trace metals in soils affected by mine tailings

Environmental impacts caused by mine dam ruptures or inappropriate tailing depositions represent a global concern. An ecological risk assessment was performed in 18 areas affected by the collapse of a major mining dam in southeastern Brazil, in two monitoring periods (2015 and 2018). In these areas, pedogeochemical surveys, and ecological risk levels were determinate. In addition, ecotoxicological assays with Proisotoma minuta (Collembola) were carried out in laboratory. Soil screening values indicated that all contaminated areas were above regional reference values for soil quality for at least one metal (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and Zn), likewise exceeding threshold values for potential ecological and human health risks. In two monitoring years, significant ecotoxicity in the avoidance and reproduction of P. minuta (> 60 % and >80 %, respectively) were evidenced in most soils; and lethal responses in some areas like Córrego Novo, Governador Valadares and Tumiritinga. Results suggest changes in soil physical-chemical properties due to tailing deposition, thus affecting soil dwellers. This study can elucidate the use of appropriate tools to ecological risk assessments, helping to identify the priority areas for defining remediation and monitoring strategies.

Uptake, toxicity, and maternal transfer of cadmium in the oribatid soil mite, Oppia nitens: Implication in the risk assessment of cadmium to soil invertebrates

Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal of concern in contaminated sites because of its high toxicity to soil biota and humans. Typically, Cd exposure is thought to be dominated by dissolved Cd in soil pore water and, thus, dermal uptake. In this study, we investigated the uptake, toxicity, and maternal transfer of Cd in a standard soil invertebrate, the oribatid mite (Oppia nitens), which is common to boreal and temperate ecozones. We found total soil Cd predicted Cd uptake in adult and juvenile O. nitens with no significant uptake from pore water by juvenile mites. Cadmium significantly inhibited juvenile production and recruitment as well as reduced adult fecundity. Adult O. nitens maternally transferred 39-52% of their Cd body burden to juveniles (tritonymphs) while the maternally-acquired Cd accounted for 41% of the juvenile internal Cd load. Our results suggest that dermal adsorption of metal ions is not important for O. nitens and that maternal transfer of Cd in soil invertebrates has ecological and toxicological implications for populations of soil invertebrates. Maternal transfer should be incorporated as a criterion in setting environmental soil quality guidelines (SQG_E) for cadmium and other non-essential heavy metals.

Oppia nitens C.L. Koch, 1836 (Acari: Oribatida): Current Status of Its Bionomics and Relevance as a Model Invertebrate in Soil Ecotoxicology

The oribatid soil mite Oppia nitens C.L. Koch, 1836, is a model microarthropod in soil ecotoxicity testing. This species has a significant role in supporting soil functions and as a suitable indicator of soil contamination. Despite its significance to the environment and to ecotoxicology, however, very little is known of its biology, ecology, and suborganismal responses to contaminants in the soil. In the present review, we present detailed and critical insights into the biology and ecology of O. nitens in relation to traits that are crucial to its adaptive responses to contaminants in soil. We used a species sensitivity distribution model to rank the species sensitivity to heavy metals (cadmium and zinc) and neonicotinoids (imidacloprid and thiacloprid) compared with other standardized soil invertebrates. Although the International Organization for Standardization and Environment and Climate Change Canada are currently standardizing a protocol for the use of O. nitens in soil toxicity testing, we believe that O. nitens is limited as a model soil invertebrate until the molecular pathways associated with its response to contaminants are better understood. These pathways can only be elucidated with information from the mites' genome or transcriptome, which is currently lacking. Despite this limitation, we propose a possible molecular pathway to metal tolerance and a putative adverse outcome pathway to heavy metal toxicity in O. nitens. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2593-2613. © 2019 SETAC.

The toxicity thresholds of metal(loid)s to soil-dwelling springtail Folsomia candida-A review

Increasing concentrations of metals in soil have posed a serious threat to the soil environment. The control and evaluation of soil metal hazards demand the establishment of soil ecological criteria, which is mainly based on the obtainment of toxicity thresholds. As the most typical representative of soil-dwelling springtails, Folsomia candida performs numerous essential ecological functions in soil and has been extensively used to investigate metal toxicity effects and thresholds. This review outlined the current state of knowledge on the metal toxicity thresholds to Folsomia candida, including (1) toxicity thresholds of soil metals for the different endpoints, (2) the influence factors of metal toxicity thresholds including the test conditions, the chemical forms of metal, the soil physicochemical properties, aging time and leaching, (3) the bioavailable fractions predicting metal toxicity thresholds, (4) the internal threshold of metals. To conclude, several recommendations for future research are given to obtain the more reliable toxicity thresholds and further supplement the toxicity data of metals to Folsomia candida.

Effects of Soil Properties on Cadmium Toxicity to Folsomia candida (Collembola)

The study was endeavored to investigate the effects of soil properties on the acute and chronic cadmium (Cd) toxicities to Folsomia candida (Collembola F. candida). Results of the present study indicated that 10% lethal concentrations (LC10) in a period of 7 days were ranged from 68.6 to > 1000 mg/kg Cd. Soil Cd concentrations that halve F. candida reproductions (EC50, 28 days) were ranged from 41.4 to 146.8 mg/kg. Stepwise regression analysis between the thresholds of Cd toxicity and soil properties revealed that the pH and organic matter (OM) were two fundamental factors for the assessment of biological threats posed by Cd. The exchangeable Cd was mainly affected by soil pH. The reproduction inhibition and adult mortality ratios of F. candida were positively correlated with soil exchangeable Cd. The development of a comprehensive pedotransfer function based on pH and OM values would be suitable for accurately assessing the biological risks arising from Cd contamination.

The forgotten role of toxicodynamics: How habitat quality alters the mite, Oppia nitens, susceptibility to zinc, independent of toxicokinetics

Soil habitat quality is thought to influence metal toxicity via changes in speciation and thereby toxicokinetics. Here, we assessed the toxicokinetic and toxicodynamic effects of habitat quality on mite, Oppia nitens when exposed to zinc (Zn) contaminated soils. Forty-seven soils were ranked into three habitat qualities; high, medium, and low based on biological reproduction of Folsomia candida, Enchytraeus crypticus, and Elymus lanceolatus. From the 47 soils, eighteen soils (comprising of six soils from each habitat quality) were randomly selected and dosed with field relevant concentrations of Zn. Mite survival and reproduction were assessed after 28 days. Total Zn, bioaccessible Zn, Zn bioavailability, Zn body burden, lactate dehydrogenase activity (LDH) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activities of the mites were determined. Zinc toxicity and potency were much less in the high compared to low quality soils and the mites in the high habitat quality soils tolerated higher zinc body burdens (2040 ± 130 μg/g b.w) than the lower habitat quality (1180 ± 310 μg/g b.w). Lower LDH activity (20 ± 2 μU mg^-1) in the high quality soils compared to lower quality soils (50 ± 8 μU mg^-1) suggested that there was less stress in the high habitat quality mites. Despite changes in speciation across habitat qualities, bioavailability of zinc was similar (∼20%) irrespective of habitat quality. Our results suggest that the influence of soil properties on survival is modulated by toxicodynamics rather than toxicokinetics. Restoring habitat quality may be more important for soil invertebrate protection than metal concentration at contaminated sites.

The toxicity of exogenous nickel to soil-dwelling springtail Folsomia candida in relation to soil properties and aging time

Nickel (Ni) is a toxic metal, but studies on Ni toxicity to soil-dwelling springtail are fairly limited, and did not consider the effects of various soil properties and long aging time. To address this, the chronic toxicity of Ni to model organism-Folsomia candida in relation to soil properties and aging time were evaluated in the laboratory study. The results showed that compared to the soils aged only for 7 d, the concentrations causing 50% mortality (LC₅₀) and inhibiting 50% reproduction (EC₅₀) basing measured total Ni in four soils aged for 120 d increased by 1.30-1.94 fold and 1.27-1.82 fold, respectively. Furthermore, the aging effects significantly correlated with soil pH. The toxicity values of Ni differed in ten soils aged for 120 d, the LC₅₀ values were 279-4025 mg/kg and the EC₅₀ values were 133-1148 mg/kg. When calculating the toxicity values basing water soluble and CaCl₂ extracted Ni, the variations in LC₅₀ values between ten soils decreased, while the variations in EC₅₀ values increased. Regression analysis indicated that soil pH was the most important single factor predicting soil Ni toxicity to springtail, the combination of soil pH and OM could best explain Ni toxicity variance in ten soils (89.1% of the variance in LC₅₀ values and 89.6% of the variance in EC₅₀ values).

Toxicity of exogenous hexavalent chromium to soil-dwelling springtail Folsomia candida in relation to soil properties and aging time

Chromium (Cr) is a well-known toxic metal, but studies on Cr toxicity to soil-dwelling springtails are fairly limited, and did not consider the effects of various soil properties and long aging time. To address this, the chronic toxicity of Cr(VI) to survival and reproduction of model organism-Folsomia candida were evaluated in the laboratory studies. The results showed that compared to the soils aged only for 2 and 21 d, the concentrations inhibiting 50% reproduction (EC₅₀) significantly increased by 2.8-5.2 fold and 1.7-2.6 fold, the concentrations causing 50% mortality (LC₅₀) were higher than the highest test concentration in four soils aged for 150 d. Furthermore, the aging effects correlated significantly with soil amorphous Fe oxides. The EC₅₀ values of Cr significantly differed in ten soils aged for 150 d, ranging from 27 to 512 mg kg^-1, which were associated with the variations in reduction and sorption capacity in different soils. Regression analysis indicated that soil clay was the most important single factor predicting soil Cr toxicity to reproduction, and the inclusion of cation exchange capacity in the clay regression could best explain the toxicity variance (87.2%). Additionally, soil pH, organic matter and amorphous Fe oxides could also well explain the toxicity variance (>55%).

The toxicity of exogenous arsenic to soil-dwelling springtail Folsomia candida in relation to soil properties and aging time

Arsenic (As) is a toxic metalloid, but studies on As toxicity to soil-dwelling springtails are fairly limited, and did not consider the effects of various soil properties and long aging time. To address this, the toxicity of As to model organism-Folsomia candida were evaluated in the laboratory studies. The results showed that compared to the soils aged only for 15 d, the concentrations inhibiting 50% reproduction (EC₅₀) significantly increased by 1.3- to 2.0-fold in four soils aged for 150 d, the concentrations causing 50% mortality (LC₅₀) were higher than the highest test concentration in the most soils. Furthermore, the aging effects correlated significantly with soil free Fe oxides contents. The toxicity of As differed in ten soils aged for 150 d, the LC₅₀ were 320-> 1280 mg/kg in acute test and the EC₅₀ were 67-580 mg/kg in chronic test. Regression analysis indicated that soil clay was the most important single factor predicting soil As toxicity to reproduction, explaining 89% of the variance in EC₅₀ values. Soil pH, free Fe oxides and Al oxides could also well explain the toxicity variance (> 65%), indicating that As sorption was a key factor controlling its toxicity.

Safety assessment of gasification biochars using Folsomia candida (Collembola) ecotoxicological bioassays

Biochar is a product of the thermal decomposition of biomass under a limited supply of oxygen and can be deriving from pyrolysis or gasification. As the product is rich in highly recalcitrant carbon, it has been proposed as a soil amendment to improve soil fertility and to stock carbon in soils. However, the contaminant compounds present in biochar could represent potential environmental threats. The gasification biochar is a promising by-product, but its effects on soil microarthropods are still nearly unknown. The aim of this study was to assess, using a prognosis approach, any ecotoxicological consequences of four biochars (conifer, poplar, grape marc, and wheat straw) on the springtail Folsomia candida. This was assessed through a series of tests: an avoidance behavior test, a survival and reproduction test, and a test based on the hatching of eggs. Biochars were tested at different concentrations (pulverized and diluted w/w with an artificial standard soil). The results showed that the springtails did not tend to avoid the biochars' substrates up to the rate of 2-5%, but any higher levels of concentration caused the animals to keep away from it. While mortality was negatively affected only in the grape marc biochar, reproduction was significantly reduced in all biochars considered. The hatching of the eggs was anticipated at even the lowest concentrations of herbaceous biochars, while a severe delay was observed in both concentrations tested of the conifer biochar. The endpoints considered were negatively affected by pH, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and heavy metals (in order of importance). The findings confirmed the potential adverse effects that gasification biochars could have on soil microarthropods and demonstrated the necessity of introducing these tests into biochar characterization protocols.

Effects of soil properties and aging process on the acute toxicity of cadmium to earthworm Eisenia fetida

This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of soil properties and aging process on the acute toxicity of cadmium (Cd) to Eisenia fetida (E. fetida) in 18 Cd-spiked soils. Results showed that the Cd toxicity to E. fetida differed in the 18 soils with different characteristics, and median lethal concentration (LC50) values varied from 440.7 to 1520.4 mg/kg in freshly spiked soils. Soil pH and organic matter (OM) content were the two major factors associated with Cd toxicity. The increase in LC50 values and decreases in both exchangeable Cd in soils and tissue Cd concentrations in earthworm whole body indicated that aging (180 and 360 days) could reduce the acute toxicity and bioavailability of Cd to E. fetida. Cadmium concentrations in E. fetida were positively correlated with exchangeable Cd content in soils, and soil pH and OM were the key factors controlling the distribution and transformation of the exchangeable Cd. The results will provide useful reference information for the risk assessment of Cd in the terrestrial environment.

A mechanistic review on vermifiltration of wastewater: Design, operation and performance

With global population explosion, the available water resources are slowly being polluted due to the excessive human interference. To encounter this, it is the need of this hour to find out sustainable pollution remediating technologies to meet the stringent discharge standards for domestic as well as industrial wastewaters. In addition, those techniques should have the capabilities for effective implementation even in developing countries. Based on the available literatures, one such technique, named vermifilter, has been identified which takes care of almost all the sustainable and economical criteria for its effective implementation even in developing countries. The aim of this meta-analysis is to provide a comprehensive review on assessment mechanisms involved, factors affecting the process and performance of vermifiltration under different scenarios. The present review envisages the current state of the knowledge regarding physical, chemical and biological aspects related to the treatment mechanisms and effective functioning of earthworms. This review has also proposed several suggestive plans on its application at any proposed site.

Life history traits of the free-living nematode, Plectus acuminatus Bastian, 1865, and responses to cadmium exposure

Free-living nematodes are ubiquitous and play an essential role in ecosystems. However, little is known about their standard life history traits (LHTs), which limits their inclusion in estimations of energy flows and carrying capacities of ecosystems, as well as in modelling population-level responses to toxicants. Thus, we used the hanging-drop method to measure LHTs of Plectus acuminatus with and without exposure to cadmium (2 mg l−1). In controls, the mean lifespan was 68 days and the maximum 114 days. Individuals laid eggs on average 19 days after hatching, while production of offspring peaked at 37 days. Plectus acuminatus individuals were very fertile, producing on average 848 juveniles. Population growth rate of 0.19 was estimated for the control cohort leading to an average population doubling time of 3.65 days. Exposure to cadmium reduced mean lifespan by 62% and affected reproduction as only 22% of individuals produced offspring, leading to a total fertility rate 85% lower than in controls.

Predicting plant uptake of cadmium: validated with long-term contaminated soils

Cadmium accumulates in plant tissues at low soil loadings and is a concern for human health. Yet at higher levels it is also of concern for ecological receptors. We determined Cd partitioning constants for 41 soils to examine the role of soil properties controlling Cd partitioning and plant uptake. From a series of sorption and dose response studies, transfer functions were developed for predicting Cd uptake in Cucumis sativa L. (cucumber). The parameter log K_f was predicted with soil pH_ca, logCEC and log OC. Transfer of soil pore-water Cd²⁺ to shoots was described with a power function (R ² = 0.73). The dataset was validated with 13 long-term contaminated soils (plus 2 control soils) ranging in Cd concentration from 0.2 to 300 mg kg^-1. The series of equations predicting Cd_shoot from pore-water Cd²⁺ were able to predict the measured data in the independent dataset (root mean square error = 2.2). The good relationship indicated that Cd uptake to cucumber shoots could be predicted with Cd_pore and Cd²⁺ without other pore-water parameters such as pH or Ca²⁺. The approach may be adapted to a range of plant species.

Sorption and pH determine the long-term partitioning of cadmium in natural soils

The bioavailability of metals in soil is a dynamic process. For a proper extrapolation to the field of laboratory studies on fate and effects, it is important to understand the dynamics of metal bioavailability and the way it is influenced by soil properties. The aim of this study was to assess the parallel (concurrent) effect of pH and aging time on the partitioning of cadmium in natural LUFA 2.2 soil. Cadmium nitrate-spiked pH-amended LUFA 2.2 soils were incubated under laboratory conditions for up to 30 weeks. Measured pHpw was lower after 3 weeks and decreased only slightly toward the end of the test. Cadmium concentrations in the pore water increased with time for all soil pH levels, while they decreased with increasing pH. Freundlich kf values ranged between 4.26 and 934 L kg(-1) (n = 0.79 to 1.36) and were highest at the highest pH tested (pH = 6.5). Multiple linear regression analysis, based on a soil ligand modeling approach, resulted in affinity constants of 2.61 for Ca(2+) (log KCa-SL) and 5.05 for H(+) (log KH-SL) for their binding to the active sites on the soil surface. The results showed that pH and aging time are two important factors which together affect cadmium partitioning and mobility in spiked natural soils.

Pre-adaptive cadmium tolerance in the black garden ant

The black garden ant Lasius niger is a common component of habitats subjected to anthropological stress. The species can develop very abundant populations in metal-polluted areas. In this study, we raised the question of its tolerance to Cd pollution. Workers of L. niger were collected from 54 colonies, originating from 19 sites located along an increasing gradient of Cd pollution in Poland. Ants were exposed to a range of dietary Cd concentrations in a controlled 14-day laboratory experiment in order to test Cd-sensitivity in the investigated ants. The level of ant mortality was recorded as the endpoint of the experiment. We used much higher concentrations of dietary Cd than those the ants are most likely exposed to in field conditions. The investigated ants were highly Cd-tolerant; even a very high dietary Cd concentration of approx. 1300 mg/kg did not affect mortality of workers when compared to the control. Mortality was unrelated to Cd-pollution along the pollution gradient, meaning that high Cd-tolerance can be found even in ants from unpolluted areas. The results stress the importance of pre-adaptive mechanisms in the development of metal tolerance in ants.

Combined subacute toxicity of copper and antiparasitic albendazole to the earthworm (Eisenia fetida)

Copper (Cu) is one of the most common metal contaminants, and albendazole (ABZ) is a veterinary drug with a high efficacy against helminthes. It is believed that the two may co-exist in soil. In this study, the combined subacute toxicity of Cu exposure (0, 80, 120, 160 mg kg(-1)) and ABZ exposure (0, 3, 9 mg kg(-1)) in earthworms (Eisenia fetida) were observed using three approaches, namely chronic growth and reproduction, antioxidant enzyme activity, and earthworm Cu residue. The results have shown that the toxicity of Cu on cocoon hatching success and biomass was alleviated by presence of low concentrations of ABZ (3 mg kg(-1)) during a 56-day exposure period. However, the sensitivity of the earthworms' reproduction to Cu increased with the presence of high concentrations of ABZ (9 mg kg(-1)), indicating a reduction beginning at a Cu concentration of 80 mg kg(-1), in the cocoon number, hatching success, and biomass. In addition, the three enzyme activities exhibited different responsive patterns, indicating inducement in the catalase and glutathione peroxidase, and inhibition in the superoxide dismutase, which were dependent on the exposure times and concentrations. In regard to the earthworm Cu residue, when increasing Cu exposure concentrations, the internal Cu concentrations tended to level off, exhibited a linear pattern at the Cu concentration range of 40 to 120 mg kg(-1), and showed a stable trend above 120 mg kg(-1). The results of the present study can potentially provide important information regarding the combined toxicity of the veterinary drugs and the heavy metals in soil.

Scenario-targeted toxicity assessment through multiple endpoint bioassays in a soil posing unacceptable environmental risk according to regulatory screening values

Lanestosa is a chronically polluted site (derelict mine) where the soil (Lanestosa (LA) soil) exceeds screening values (SVs) of regulatory policies in force (Basque Country; Europe) for Zn, Pb and Cd. A scenario-targeted toxicity assessment was carried out on the basis of a multi-endpoint bioassay approach. Acute and chronic toxicity bioassays were conducted with selected test species (Vibrio fischeri, Dictyostelium discoideum, Lactuca sativa, Raphanus sativus and Eisenia fetida) in combination with chemical analysis of soils and elutriates and with bioaccumulation studies in earthworms. Besides, the toxicity profile was compared with that of the mine runoff (RO) soil and of a fresh artificially polluted soil (LAAPS) resembling LA soil pollutant profile. Extractability studies in LA soil revealed that Pb, Zn and Cd were highly available for exchange and/or release into the environment. Indeed, Pb and Zn were accumulated in earthworms and LA soil resulted to be toxic. Soil respiration, V. fischeri, vegetative and developmental cycles of D. discoideum and survival and juvenile production of E. fetida were severely affected. These results confirmed that LA soil had unacceptable environmental risk and demanded intervention. In contrast, although Pb and Zn concentrations in RO soil revealed also unacceptable risk, both metal extractability and toxicity were much lower than in LA soil. Thus, within the polluted site, the need for intervention varied between areas that posed dissimilar risk. Besides, since LAAPS, with a high exchangeable metal fraction, was the most toxic, ageing under in situ natural conditions seemingly contributed to attenuate LA soil risk. As a whole, combining multi-endpoint bioassays with scenario-targeted analysis (including leaching and ageing) provides reliable risk assessment in soils posing unacceptable environmental risk according to SVs, which is useful to optimise the required intervention measures.

Effects of metals on earthworm life cycles: a review

Earthworms are abundant and ecologically very important organisms in the soil ecosystem. Impacts by pollutants on earthworm communities greatly influence the fertility of the terrestrial environment. In ecotoxicology, earthworms are good indicators of metal pollution. The observed median lethal concentrations (LC50) and the effective concentrations that cause 50% reduction of earthworm growth and reproduction (EC50) are referred to as toxicity concentrations or endpoints. In addition, the 'no observed effective concentration' (NOEC) is the estimation of the toxicity of metals on earthworms expressed as the highest concentration tested that does not show effects on growth and reproduction compared to controls. This article reviews the ecotoxicological parameters of LC50, EC50 and NOEC of a set of worms exposed to a number of metals in various tested media. In addition, this article reviews metal accumulation and the influences of soil characteristics on metal accumulation in earthworms. Morphological and behavioural responses are often used in earthworm toxicity studies. Therefore, earthworm responses due to metal toxicity are also discussed in this article.

Volcanogenic pollution and testicular damage in wild mice

Many evidences have surfaced the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on male reproduction. Volcanogenic pollution is understudied, although it is a well-known source of hazardous contaminants. This study aims to assess the effects of chronic exposure to volcanogenic pollution on wild mice testes by studying: (i) diameter of seminiferous tubules; (ii) relative volumetric density of different spermatogenic cells and interstitial space; (iii) damage in the seminiferous tubules and (iv) apoptotic level in the germinal epithelium. The mice from the polluted site showed higher levels of the selected heavy metals than those from the reference site. The mean diameter of seminiferous tubules and the relative volume occupied by spermatozoa and lumen in exposed mice were significantly lower than in the unexposed group. Contrarily, exposed mice showed a significantly higher relative volume occupied by interstitium, as well as, a higher degree of damage and a significantly higher number of apoptotic cells in the germinal epithelium. Results show that secondary manifestations of volcanic activity can pose a serious risk of testicular injury and therefore for male reproduction.

The use of soil mites in ecotoxicology: a review

Mites, and especially soil-inhabiting ones, have been less studied than the other invertebrates used in bio-assays for the assessment of soil quality and the hazards of chemicals, although these organisms are included in the regulatory assessment scheme of pesticides. The recent advances in the development of test methods for soil mites groups have provided more information on their sensitivities towards chemicals, which needs to be presented for a more robust assessment of the current trends in soil mite ecotoxicology. Moreover, interestingly mite is the only taxa for which test methods were developed and standardized on predatory organisms. This review summarizes the different protocols for the assessment of chemicals using soil-inhabiting mites, including laboratory, semi-field and field studies. Among the data found in the literature, most of the chemicals assessed with mites were pesticides, while a few environmental samples were assessed with these organisms. Their sensitivities towards chemicals were then compared and discussed regarding other soil invertebrates. Finally, we conclude on the usefulness of soil mites in ecotoxicology, and provide future research trail in this area.

Contribution for the derivation of a soil screening value (SSV) for uranium, using a natural reference soil

In order to regulate the management of contaminated land, many countries have been deriving soil screening values (SSV). However, the ecotoxicological data available for uranium is still insufficient and incapable to generate SSVs for European soils. In this sense, and so as to make up for this shortcoming, a battery of ecotoxicological assays focusing on soil functions and organisms, and a wide range of endpoints was carried out, using a natural soil artificially spiked with uranium. In terrestrial ecotoxicology, it is widely recognized that soils have different properties that can influence the bioavailability and the toxicity of chemicals. In this context, SSVs derived for artificial soils or for other types of natural soils, may lead to unfeasible environmental risk assessment. Hence, the use of natural regional representative soils is of great importance in the derivation of SSVs. A Portuguese natural reference soil PTRS1, from a granitic region, was thereby applied as test substrate. This study allowed the determination of NOEC, LOEC, EC₂₀ and EC₅₀ values for uranium. Dehydrogenase and urease enzymes displayed the lowest values (34.9 and <134.5 mg U Kg, respectively). Eisenia andrei and Enchytraeus crypticus revealed to be more sensitive to uranium than Folsomia candida. EC₅₀ values of 631.00, 518.65 and 851.64 mg U Kg were recorded for the three species, respectively. Concerning plants, only Lactuca sativa was affected by U at concentrations up to 1000 mg U kg¹. The outcomes of the study may in part be constrained by physical and chemical characteristics of soils, hence contributing to the discrepancy between the toxicity data generated in this study and that available in the literature. Following the assessment factor method, a predicted no effect concentration (PNEC) value of 15.5 mg kg⁻¹_dw was obtained for U. This PNEC value is proposed as a SSV for soils similar to the PTRS1.

Assessment of the bioavailability and toxicity of lead polluted soils using a combination of chemical approaches and bioassays with the collembolan Folsomia candida

Understanding bioavailability and toxicity is essential for effective ecological assessment of contaminated soils. Total, water and 0.01 M CaCl2 extractable and porewater Pb concentrations and soil properties in different shooting field soils were investigated. Three artificial soils containing different pH and organic matter contents and two natural soils were included as controls. Survival, reproduction and avoidance responses of Folsomia candida exposed to these soils as well as internal Pb concentrations were measured. In the shooting range soils, total Pb concentrations were 47-2,398 mg/kg dw, [Formula: see text] 3.2-6.8 and organic matter content 3.8-7.0%. Pb concentrations in F. candida linearly increased with increasing Pb concentrations in the soils. Acid forest soils caused significantly higher collembolan mortality and avoidance responses and significantly lower reproduction than the neutral grassland soils, which could be attributed to differences in pH and especially CaCl2 extractable Pb concentrations. Soil properties significantly affected bioavailability and toxicity of Pb, but overall the collembolans seemed more sensitive to pH than to Pb in soils. This study shows the importance of selecting proper reference soils for assessing the effects of field soils.

Using a toxicokinetics approach to explain the effect of soil pH on cadmium bioavailability to Folsomia candida

The aim of this study was to improve our understanding of metal bioavailability in soil by linking the biotic ligand approach with toxicokinetics modelling. We determined cadmium bioaccumulation kinetics in Folsomia candida (Collembola) as a function of soil pH. Animals were exposed for 21 days to LUFA 2.2 soil at 5 or 20 μg Cd g(-1) dry soil followed by 21 days elimination in clean soil. Internal cadmium concentrations were modelled using a first-order one-compartment model, relating uptake rate constants (k1) to total soil, water or 0.01 M CaCl2 extractable and porewater concentrations. Based on total soil concentrations, k1 was independent of soil pH while it strongly increased with increasing pH based on porewater concentrations explaining the reduced competition of H(+) ions making cadmium more bioavailable in pore water at high pH. This shows that the principles of biotic ligand modelling are applicable to predict cadmium accumulation kinetics in soil-living invertebrates.

Exposure of Enchytraeus albidus to Cd and Zn - changes in cellular energy allocation (CEA) and linkage to transcriptional, enzymatic and reproductive effects

Cellular energy allocation (CEA) is a measure of the energy status of an organism. The effects of Cd and Zn (reproduction EC(50)s and EC(90)s) on the total energy budget of Enchytraeus albidus (Oligochaeta) were assessed through CEA determination, over periods of time from 0 to 8 d. Results showed reduction on the energy reserves for both metals after 2 d exposure. Lipids were the first reserves to be used and carbohydrates were reduced exclusively after Cd exposure. Electron transport system (ETS) activities were enhanced, suggesting increased metabolism and higher energy requirements for metal detoxification. This was supported by previous results at transcription level, where an up-regulation of genes involved in the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation was verified. Additionally, the reduction of CEA may be related with the decrease on the reproductive output. These results showed the relevance of integrating various endpoints, which enabled an overview of various processes and to unravel mechanisms of action of chemicals.

The dose-dependent influence of zinc and cadmium contamination of soil on their uptake and glucosinolate content in white cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. alba)

The relationship between the ability to accumulate heavy metals (represented by Cd and Zn) and to synthesize bioactive compounds (represented by glucosinolates [GLS]) was investigated in two cabbage cultivars. Plants were grown in the greenhouse of a phytotron under controlled conditions in soils spiked with two different Zn or Cd concentrations. The measurements of Cd and Zn contents in soil and cabbage (leaf) samples were performed by atomic absorption spectroscopy, whereas GLS levels in cabbage were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The ranges of metal contents in soil were 80 to 450 mg/kg dry weight for Zn and 0.3 to 30 mg/kg dry weight for Cd, whereas the levels of accumulated Zn and Cd in cabbage amounted to 15 to 130 and 0.02 to 3 mg/kg dry weight, respectively. After initial symptoms of toxicity, during a later stage of growth, the plants exhibited very good tolerance to both metals. Enhanced biosynthesis of GLS was observed in a dose-dependent manner following exposure to the heavy metals. The GLS content in Zn-exposed cabbage rose from 3.2 to 12 µmol/g dry weight, and the corresponding values for Cd-treated plants were 3.5 to 10 µmol/g dry weight. Thus, the increased soil contamination by metals caused greater accumulation in cabbage, as well as stimulation of GLS biosynthesis. The results obtained point to the high phytoremediation and biofumigation potential of white cabbage.

Accumulation and toxicity of metals (copper, zinc, cadmium, and lead) and organic compounds (geraniol and benzo[a]pyrene) in the oribatid mite Oppia nitens

The oribatid mite Oppia nitens has been suggested as a test species for ecotoxicological assessment of contaminated boreal soils. Knowledge of the ecotoxicity of pollutants of different modes of action to this species is necessary to assess its relative sensitivity in comparison with other invertebrates. The toxicity of four metals and two organic chemicals to O. nitens was evaluated over a 28- or 35-d period. Mite survival, reproduction, and tissue accumulation were assessed at the end of the test. Reproduction was a more sensitive endpoint than survival for all of the compounds except geraniol. The reproduction median inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were 2,896, 1,562, 137, and 1,678 mg/kg, respectively, whereas those for benzo[a]pyrene and geraniol were greater than 1,600 and 283 mg/kg. The median lethal concentration (LC50) values for Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were 3,311, 2,291, 603, and 6,761 mg/kg, respectively, whereas those for benzo[a]pyrene and geraniol were greater than 1,600 and 251 mg/kg. When effects on reproduction are compared with those of other soil invertebrates, O. nitens appears less sensitive to Cu and Zn but within the same order of magnitude of sensitivity as that for Cd and Pb. Despite its lower sensitivity to Cu and Zn, O. nitens is a member of a group underrepresented in ecotoxicological evaluations and should therefore be included in test battery for risk assessment of contaminated boreal and other northern soils.

Enchytraeus crypticus as model species in soil ecotoxicology

Enchytraeids are ecologically relevant soil organisms, due to their activity in decomposition and bioturbation in many soil types worldwide. The enchytraeid reproduction test (ERT) guidelines ISO 16387 and OECD 220 are exclusive to the genus Enchytraeus and recommend using the species E. albidus with a 6-week test period. The suggested alternative, E. crypticus has a shorter generation time which may enable the ERT to be twice as fast. To confirm the suitability of a 3-week test period for E. crypticus, the toxicity of five chemicals, with distinct properties and modes of action, was assessed in LUFA 2.2 soil. In all controls the validity criteria were met, as survival of E. crypticus was above 92% and more than 772 juveniles were produced. The good performance supports its appropriateness as model species. Reproduction was more sensitive than survival, with only cadmium and 3,5-dichloroaniline causing significant lethal effects in the tested concentration ranges. The effect concentration causing 50% reduction in the number of juveniles (EC50) was 35 mg kg(-1) for cadmium, <1.0 mg kg(-1) for carbendazim, 145 mg kg(-1) for phenanthrene, 275 mg kg(-1) for pentachloroaniline and 102 mg kg(-1) for 3,5-dichloroaniline. To evaluate the sensitivity of E. crypticus, the present results were compared to literature data for E. albidus. In conclusion, E. crypticus is a suitable model species in soil ecotoxicology, with advantages such as good control performance and speed, leading to a reliable and faster ERT.

Toxicity of profenofos to the springtail, Folsomia candida, and ammonia-oxidizers in two agricultural soils

Extensive use of organophosphorus insecticide profenofos (PFF) for agricultural and house-hold purposes has led to serious environmental pollution, with potential risk to organisms in the ecosystem. This study examined the toxicity of PFF to the soil springtail Folsomia candida and ammonia-oxidizers through a series of toxicity tests conducted on two agricultural soils. It was found that the survival, reproduction, hsp70 gene expression of F. candida and the soil potential nitrification rate (PNR) were sensitive to the PFF, whereas no apparent change was observed in the abundance of ammonia-oxidizers. The reproduction of F. candida was the most sensitive endpoint (mean 0.10 mg/kg of EC(50) value) for PFF, although the test was more time-consuming. The results of the acute toxicity tests suggested that the survival of F. candida could be considered as the most suitable bioindicator for fast screening of PFF toxicity because of its fast and easy test procedure. In addition, the hsp70 gene expression in F. candida and the PNR could be used as important parameters for assessment of PFF toxicity. The threshold concentration based on the obtained endpoints differed in the two soils, and consequently the soil property should be considered in toxicity assessments of contaminated soils.

Reproduction and biochemical responses in Enchytraeus albidus (Oligochaeta) to zinc or cadmium exposures

To better understand chemical modes of action, emphasis has been given to stress responses at lower levels of biological organization. Cholinesterases and antioxidant defenses are among the most used biomarkers due to their crucial role in the neurocholinergic transmission and in cell homeostasis preventing DNA damage, enzymatic inactivation and lipid peroxidation. The main goal of this study was to investigate the effects of zinc and cadmium on survival and reproduction of E. albidus and to assess metals oxidative stress potential and neurotoxic effects at concentrations that affected reproduction. Both metals affected the enchytraeids' survival and reproduction and induced significant changes in the antioxidant defenses as well as increased lipid peroxidation, indicating oxidative damage. This study demonstrates that determining effects at different levels of biological organization can give better information on the physiological responses of enchytraeids in metal contamination events and further unravel the mechanistic processes dealing with metal stress.

Uptake kinetics and subcellular compartmentalization of cadmium in acclimated and unacclimated earthworms (Eisenia andrei)

Acclimation to cadmium (Cd) levels exceeding background concentrations may influence the ability of earthworms to accumulate Cd with minimum adverse effects. In the present study, earthworms (Eisenia andrei) were acclimated by exposure to 20 mg/kg Cd (dry wt) in Webster soil for 28 d. A 224-d bioaccumulation test was subsequently conducted with both acclimated and unacclimated worms exposed in Webster soils spiked with 20 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg Cd (dry wt). Uptake kinetics and subcellular compartmentalization of Cd were examined. Results suggest that acclimated earthworms accumulated more Cd and required a longer time to reach steady state than unacclimated worms. Most of the Cd was present in the metallothionein (MT) fraction. Cadmium in the MT fraction increased approximately linearly with time and required a relatively longer time to reach steady state than Cd in cell debris and granule fractions, which quickly reached steady state. Cadmium in the cell debris fraction is considered potentially toxic, but low steady state concentrations observed in the present study would not suggest the potential for adverse effects. Future use of earthworms in ecological risk assessment should take into consideration pre-exposure histories of the test organisms. A prolonged test period may be required for a comprehensive understanding of Cd uptake kinetics and compartmentalization.

mRNA expression of a cadmium-responsive gene is a sensitive biomarker of cadmium exposure in the soil collembolan Folsomia candida

The gene expression of environmental organisms is useful as a biomarker of environmental pollution. One of its advantages is high sensitivity. We identified the cDNA of a novel cadmium-responsive gene in the soil collembolan Folsomia candida. The deduced protein, designated "metallothionein-like motif containing protein" (MTC), was cysteine-rich and contained a metallothionein-like motif with similarity to metallothionein, but had a much longer sequence than metallothionein and contained repeated sequences of amino acids. Expression of MTC mRNA was sensitively induced by cadmium exposure at 0.3 mg/kg of dry food, a concentration at which toxic effects are not observed, but expression was not affected by gamma-ray exposure (an inducer of oxidative stress). These findings suggest that MTC is involved in cadmium-binding processes rather than in oxidative-stress responses. In conclusion, we suggest that gene expression of MTC may be a candidate biomarker for detecting low levels of cadmium contamination in soil.

Mixture effects of nickel and chlorpyrifos on Folsomia candida (Collembola) explained from development of toxicity in time

Two reference models are commonly used to predict mixture toxicity, Concentration Addition and Independent Action. For accurately predicting mixture effects, both reference models need a full description of the dose-response curve for all single chemicals present in the mixture. We studied the mixture effect of nickel and chlorpyrifos on survival of the soil-dwelling collembolan Folsomia candida exposed for 7weeks in Lufa 2.2 soil. Especially chlorpyrifos toxicity showed extremely steep dose-response curves, making it impossible to fulfil the assumptions required by both reference models. Nevertheless, we showed that by monitoring the development of toxicity in time for both the single compounds and the mixtures it was possible to determine mixture effects. Even at exposure levels below the No Effect Concentration, chlorpyrifos was found to reduce nickel toxicity. In addition, this study clearly showed that toxicity is a dynamic process and that mixture effects may be dependent on exposure time.

Determining cadmium critical concentrations in natural soils by assessing Collembola mortality, reproduction and growth

The toxicity of cadmium for the Collembola Folsomia candida was studied by determining the effects of increasing Cd concentrations on growth, survival and reproduction in three cultivated and forested soils with different pH (4.5-8.2) and organic matter content (1.6-16.5%). The Cd concentration in soil CaCl(2) exchangeable fraction, in soil solution and in Collembola body was determined. At similar total soil concentrations, the Cd concentration in soil solutions strongly decreased with increasing pH. Reproduction was the most sensitive parameter. Low organic matter content was a limiting factor for reproduction. Effect of Cd on reproduction was better described by soil or body concentrations than by soil solution concentration. Values of EC(50-Repro) expressed on the basis of nominal soil concentration were 182, 111 and 107 microg g(-1), respectively, for a carbonated cultivated soil (AU), an acid forested soil with high organic matter (EPC) and a circumneutral cultivated soil with low organic content (SV). Sensitivity to Cd was enhanced for low OM content and acidic pH. The effect of Cd on reproduction is not directly related to Cd concentration in soil solution for carbonated soil: a very low value is found for EC(50-Repro) (0.17) based on soil solution for the soil with the highest pH (AU; pH=8.2). Chronic toxicity cannot be predicted on the basis of soluble fractions. Critical concentrations were 8 x 10(-5), 1.1, 0.3 microg mL(-1), respectively, for AU, EPC and SV soils.

Single and joint effects of Zn and Cd on Porcellio scaber (Crustacea, Isopoda) exposed to artificially contaminated food

This study aimed at determining effects of Zn, Cd and their equitoxic mixtures on metal assimilation and food consumption of the terrestrial isopod Porcellio scaber, in relation to metal availability in the food. Cd was four times less water-extractable than Zn. Cd or Zn extractability was affected neither by metal concentration nor by the presence of the other metal. In single metal exposures, assimilation efficiency (AE) was up to five times higher for Cd than for Zn. In a mixture, AE of Cd significantly increased at low mixture concentrations and decreased at high mixture concentrations. AE of Zn significantly increased at intermediate mixture concentrations. Effects of the Zn and Cd mixture on food consumption were additive (28-day EC(50,total)=1.10TU; EC(50,water-extractable)=1.18TU) when based on total and water-extractable concentrations but antagonistic when related to internal metal concentrations in the isopods (EC(50,internal)=1.40TU).

Effects of acute gamma irradiation on Folsomia candida (Collembola) in a standard test

An understanding of the effects of ionizing radiation on non-human biota is required by the International Commission on Radiological Protection for the radiological protection of the environment. We examined dose-effect relationships for gamma radiation on survival, growth, and reproduction in the soil invertebrate Folsomia candida (Collembola) in a standard laboratory test. F. candida were acutely irradiated at increasing doses of gamma radiation, and subsequent survival, growth in body length, and number of neonates produced by irradiated specimens were examined. The 50% lethal dose was at 1356 Gy, and the 10% and 50% effective doses (ED10 and ED50) for growth were at 32 and 144 Gy, respectively. The ED10 and ED50 values for reproduction were at 7.1 and 21.9 Gy, respectively. These data establish important baselines for the radiological protection of terrestrial ecosystems based on scientific principles.

Effect of major cations and pH on the acute toxicity of cadmium to the earthworm Eisenia fetida: implications for the biotic ligand model approach

The purpose of this study was to characterize the individual effect of different cations (Ca(2+), Mg(2+), Na(+), K(+), and H(+)) on the acute toxicity of Cd to the earthworm Eisenia fetida. Higher activities of the considered cations increased the 48-h LC(50) (expressed as Cd(2+) activities) linearly to different extents in simulated soil solution. The conditional constants for the binding of H(+ )(log K = 5.41), Cd(2+ )(log K = 4.0), Ca(2+ )(log K = 3.35), Mg(2+ )(log K = 2.82), Na(+ )(log K = 1.57), and K(+ )(log K = 2.31) to the biotic ligand (BL) of E. fetida were derived from the toxicity data based on the biotic ligand model (BLM). Furthermore, it was calculated that on average 72% of the BL sites needed to be occupied by Cd(2+) to induce 50% lethal effect. Autovalidation of the model with the results of the test sets showed that 48-h LC(50 )could be predicted within a factor of two.

Life-history trade-offs of Paronychiurus kimi (Lee) (Collembola: Onychiuridae) populations exposed to paraquat

The demography of Paronychiurus kimi, a dominant collembolan in paddy fields of Korea, was quantified for four treatments of the herbicide paraquat (0, 1.6, 16, 160 and 1600 microg/cm(2)) in a controlled environment using plaster-of-Paris as the test substrate. The survival rate of adults and the reproductive fitness of P. kimi were not affected by paraquat except at the highest dosage (1600 microg/cm(2)), when fed baker's yeast and reared on plaster-charcoal substrate. However, results of life-history experiments suggest that fitness was maintained by a tradeoff between fecundity and reproductive period. It is suggested that these are potential life-history tradeoffs of Collembola that were exposed to the manufacturer's recommended concentration of paraquat (16 microg/cm(2)).

Application of a biomarker battery for the evaluation of the sublethal effects of pollutants in the earthworm Eisenia andrei

We applied a battery of biomarkers in the earthworm Eisenia andrei to assess the pollutant-induced stress syndrome. Earthworms were exposed to sublethal concentrations of copper (1-10 microM) and benzo[a]pyrene (0.01-10 microM) as models of inorganic and organic pollutants for 1, 3 and 7 days. Four potential biomarkers of stress were measured: lysosomal membrane stability of coelomocytes, lysosomal accumulation of lipofuscin in chloragogenous tissue and of neutral lipids in coelomatic cells, plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase activity in the intestinal epithelium; metallothionein content was also evaluated as a biomarker of exposure. Significant changes were observed in the parameters measured in earthworms exposed to both contaminants. Certain biomarkers, such as lysosomal membrane stability and Ca2+-ATPase activity, that showed a decreasing trend with increasing pollutant concentration and time of exposure, proved to be particularly suitable to describe the evolution of a stress syndrome from its early phase to the development of pathological conditions. On the other hand, contaminant-induced changes in lysosomal lipofuscin and neutral lipid accumulation showed a bell-shaped trend, indicating that these biomarkers are able to follow the development of pollutant-induced stress syndrome as far as an equilibrium in the cell functions is maintained; therefore, they are particularly useful to describe mild stress conditions.

Apoptosis, metallothionein, and bioavailable metals in domestic mice (Mus musculus L.) from a human-inhabited volcanic area

The influence of extreme environments of volcanic origin over vertebrates and the cellular responses that these may give are almost unknown. The main objectives were to evaluate the exposure of mice to metals in the interior of houses of a small village settled inside a volcanic crater (Furnas, Azores), and the levels of apoptosis and metallothionein in the organs (lung, liver, and kidney) of those animals. Adult mice (Mus musculus) were captured in two areas, one with volcanic activity and the other without it over the last three centuries. In the excised organs, analysis of metals (Al, Cd, Pb, Zn), TUNEL assay for apoptosis, and immunohistochemistry for metallothionein were undertook. Mice from the area with volcanic activity presented higher levels of apoptosis and metallothionein than those from the area without volcanic activity. Such results were in agreement with the differences in metal burdens of the three organs, and interestingly these concentrations were similar to or higher than others found in heavily polluted areas outside the Azores. Thus, there may be a high risk of harmful effects for organisms, including humans, inhabiting areas with volcanism, where hazardous gases and metals in the air are very common during the entire day or even all year round.

A review of studies performed to assess metal uptake by earthworms

Earthworms perform a number of essential functions in soil; the impacts of metals on earthworms are often investigated. In this review we consider the range of earthworm species, types of soil and forms of metal for which metal uptake and accumulation have been studied, the design of these experiments and the quantitative relationships that have been derived to predict earthworm metal body burden. We conclude that there is a need for more studies on earthworm species other than Eisenia fetida in order to apply the large existing database on this earthworm to other, soil dwelling species. To aid comparisons between studies agreement is needed on standard protocols that define exposure and depuration periods and the parameters, such as soil solution composition, soil chemical and physical properties to be measured. It is recommended that more field or terrestrial model ecosystem studies using real contaminated soil rather than metal-amended artificial soils are performed.

Transfer of Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn in a soil-plant-invertebrate food chain: a microcosm study

The transfer of Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn was evaluated in a soil-plant (lettuce, Lactuca sativa)-invertebrate (snail, Helix aspersa) food chain during a microcosm experiment. Two agricultural soils, polluted and unpolluted, were studied. Lettuce was cultivated for eight weeks before introduction of snails into the microcosms (M-snails). In a parallel experiment, snails were exposed to lettuce only (i.e., without soil) in simpler exposure devices called containers (C-snails). Snail exposure duration was eight weeks for both M- and C-snails. No effects on snail survival were found. Both M- and C-snails exposed to polluted soil showed a growth reduction, but only after two weeks of exposure. Time-dependent accumulation in M-snails exposed to the polluted environment showed a regular increase of Cd and Zn concentrations over time and a rapid increase of Pb concentrations within the first two weeks, which then remained stable. Copper and Ni concentrations did not increase during any of the experiments. Concentrations in M- and C-snails were compared to estimate the relative contribution of soil and plant to the total bioaccumulation. The results suggest that the soil contribution may be higher than 80% for Pb, from 30 to 60% for Zn, and from 2 to 40% for Cd.