A multi-endpoints bioassay with Amphibalanus amphitrite larvae as a tool in ecotoxicology studies

In recent years massive efforts have been directed to identify ecologically relevant invertebrate toxicity testing models. The crustacean Amphibalanus amphitrite represent a valid model for ecotoxicology studies, as it is widely distributed, ecologically relevant and its larvae can be easily obtained and reared in laboratory. The UNICHIM standardization process of the acute toxicity assay with larvae (II stage nauplii) of A. amphitrite has recently been concluded. Aim of this work is to show the possibility of obtaining three distinct end-points (acute and sub-lethal), characterized by different sensitivity levels, by the use of the same model organism and the preparation of just one bioassay. Marine sediments (elutriates and whole sediment) were used as an example of environmental sample.