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(W/MF160) Earthworm biomarkers for the assessment of ecological harm from contaminated land. Hankard, Peter1, Weeks, Jason2, Fishwick, Samantha3, Svendsen, Claus1, 1 2 3 ABSTRACT- This poster summarises the results of a study that used earthworm biomarkers to assess contaminated sites, examine bioassay sensitivity and toxicological effects relevant to an ecologically important terrestrial organism. Traditional soil analytical techniques were also performed on samples of earthworms and soils from the sites and a range of metals and organic compounds (particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [PAHs]) were determined. Concentrations of contaminants were compared to UK soil Trigger Concentrations and the United States, Department of Energy (US DOE) toxicology benchmarks for contaminants of potential concern for effects on soil and litter invertebrates. UK Trigger concentrations are specific to human health but the new US DOE Toxicological benchmarks are designed to protect terrestrial invertebrates and are most applicable to the results of this study. Although the contaminants identified were mostly below their UK trigger concentrations, the biomarkers identified deterioration in earthworm health and for some contaminants body burdens in the earthworms correlated well with the toxicological benchmarks for soils proposed by the US DOE. This study highlighted the usefulness of relevant biological monitoring that can identify bioavailable pollutants, which exert a toxic effect, and hence be validated for development as biological monitoring tools for determining fitness for use of contaminated land in ecological terms. Key words: Contaminated Land, Earthworm Biomarkers, Neutral Red Retention Time, Total Immune Activity Assay |
