Laboratory model ecosystem evaluation of the chemical and biological behavior of radiolabeled micropollutants.

A standardized laboratory model ecosystem has been used to evaluate the comparative behavior of radiolabeled micropollutants including organochlorine, organophosphorus, carbamate, and hormone-mimic insecticides; herbicides; important industrial organic compounds including phthalate esters and PCB's; and specific pollutants such as TCBD and hexachlorobenzene. The compounds have been studies for ecological effects over a terrestrial-aquatic interface and through several food chains, especially with regard to the development of quantitative information on ecological magnification and biodegradability index. The pathways of chemical degradation in the various organisms have been evaluated and the ecological effects of degradation products investigated. Illustrations are given of the use of the model ecosystem technology for screening new candidate pesticides for effects on environmental quality; for evaluating the hazards of environmental pollution by industrial waste effluents; and for fundamental studies of the principles fo biodegradability of organic chemicals in a variety of organisms.