The 28d growth, survival and reproduction test using Leptocheirus plumulosis (EPA 600/R-01/020, March 2001) is a standard method for assessing the bioavailability and chronic toxicity of crop protection agents in sediments with a marine amphipod. In our experience, there is a great deal of variability in the reproductive endpoint of this test. We analysed control data from 5 separate studies conducted with modified protocols. We found that a strong relationship between biomass and fecundity for individual organisms explains variability observed in the reproduction endpoint. We propose a tiered approach for conducting this test. Adequate growth must be achieved in the negative controls before proceeding to assess the reproductive endpoint. Currently the main validity criterion for this test is control survival. We suggest that for the reproduction endpoint to provide useful data, a minimum growth thresholdmust be achieved in the controls.

Relationship between growth and reproduction endpoints in the 28d <i>Leptocheirus plumulosis</i> survival, growth, and reproduction test

248th National Meeting (2014)

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Relationship between growth and reproduction endpoints in the 28d Leptocheirus plumulosis survival, growth, and reproduction test