PSL >> Toxicology >> Aquatic Toxicology

Aquatic Toxicology

PSL offers a wide range of GLP aquatic ecotoxicology studies.  These tests were developed to help determine toxic effects of plant protection products (PPPs), pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metabolites.  All studies are planned and performed by a highly experienced team of scientists and technical personnel according to the current regulatory guidelines (OECD, OPPTS, EPA) and guidance documents. Analytical support is also available at PSL, to verify concentration and stability of the test compound. 

Algae and Aquatic Plants

The impact on algae and aquatic plants are examined using wide range of study designs specified in the current OECD and EPA guidelines. Depending on your specific requirements, algae studies can be performed with several different species including; green algae, blue green algae, diatoms or sea water diatoms. Aquatic plant studies can be performed either on Lemna or Myriophyllum. To meet the unique demands of our clients, other, non-standard, species can be cultured in-house. 

Aquatic Invertebrates

Studies can be conducted with Daphnia, Chironomus, Gammarus, Asellus, Hyalella and Lumbriculus.  In addition, in-house cultures are available. Test designs can be adapted to your needs with respect to the test item or application technique. Different combinations of invertebrate genus are offered in microcosm test designs.

Fish

Toxicity, growth and bioaccumulation tests are offered with rainbow trout, carp and zebrafish. Depending on the test compound and your regulatory goals, static, semi-static or flow through test designs are applied.  Each of the species of fish can be used to determine acute toxicity, prolonged toxicity and early life stage toxicity.

We offer the following studies to support your testing needs:

  • Aquatic toxicity/pathogenicity studies on Daphnia magna (OPPTS 885.4240)
  • Aquatic toxicity/pathogenicity studies on fish (OPPTS 885.4200)

Microorganisms and Ready Biodegradability

The toxicity of any test item on microorganisms is assessed by the respiration inhibition test in accordance with OECD 209

Ready biodegradability is assessed by tests as per OECD 301, e.g., by the closed bottle test (OECD 301D). These tests are commonly performed in fresh water; however, seawater can be used where adequate (OECD 306). 

Let one of the experts at Product Safety Labs help you develop a study to meet your objective.