Biological test method for determining acute lethality of sediment to amphipods: chapter 1

Section 1: Introduction

This report specifies the procedures and conditions to be used according to this reference method, when preparing for and undertaking an acute (10-day) test for measuring the toxicity of samples of contaminated or potentially contaminated marine or estuarine sediment. The reference method herein is to be applied to one or more of the following four species of infaunal marine or estuarine amphipods: Rhepoxynius abronius, Eohaustorius washingtonianus, Eohaustorius estuarius, or Amphiporeia virginiana. This reference method represents one of the biological test methods to be used as part of sediment assessments consistent with the Federal Ocean Dumping Regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (EC, 1997).

Many components of the procedures and conditions specified herein are consistent with the guidelines and approaches for measuring sediment toxicity using marine or estuarine amphipods, as described in USEPA/USACE (1991), ASTM (1993), and USEPA (1994a). The contribution of those methods to all parts of this reference method is acknowledged, and they are recommended as sources of supporting rationale. Procedures stipulated in this report should, however, be taken as the definitive ones for regulatory purposes.

This reference method is compatible with the more detailed and complete guidance, instructions, and literature citations given in Environment Canada’s multipurpose report EPS 1/RM/26 “Biological Test Method: Acute Test for Sediment Toxicity Using Marine or Estuarine Amphipods” (EC, 1992; including October 1998 Amendments). This biological test method (EC, 1992) is intended for use as a companion document when preparing for and undertaking the reference method described herein.

Sections 1.1 and 1.2 of Environment Canada (1992) should be consulted for further background information and for details regarding the historical use of the test. More recent references pertaining to the use of R. abronius, E. washingtonianus, E. estuarius, or A. virginiana in sediment toxicity tests are found herein in Appendices D to G.