-------
TABLE 20. MORTALITY DATA (NUMBER OF DEAD ORGANISMS) FROM ACUTE TOXICITY TESTS
USED IN EXAMPLES OF LC50 DETERMINATIONS (20 ORGANISMS IN THE CONTROL
AND ALL TEST CONCENTRATIONS)
Method of Analysis
Effluent Cone.
(%)
CONTROL
6.25%
12.5%
25.0%
50.0%
100.0%
Graphical
1
0
0
0
20
20
Spearman-Karber
1
1
0
0
13
20
Trimmed
Spearman-Karber
1
0
2
0
0
16
Probit
0
0
o
6
9
20
20
11.2.3 THE SPEARMAN-KARBER METHOD
11.2.3.1 Description
1. The Spearman-Karber Method is a nonparametric statistical procedure for estimating the
LC50 and the associated 95% confidence interval (Finney, 1978).
2. This procedure estimates the mean of the distribution of the Iog10 of the tolerance. If the log
tolerance distribution is symmetric, this estimate of the mean is equivalent to an estimate of
the median of the log tolerance distribution.
3. If the response proportions are not monotonically non-decreasing with increasing concentration (constant
or steadily increasing with concentration), the data are smoothed.
4. Abbott's procedure is used to "adjust" the test results for mortality occurring in the control.
5. Use of the Spearman-Karber Method is recommended when partial mortalities occur in the
test solutions, but the data do not fit the Probit model.
11.2.3.2 Requirements
1. To calculate the LC50 estimate, the following must be true:
a. The smoothed adjusted proportion mortality for the lowest effluent concentration (not including the
control) must be zero.
b. The smoothed adjusted proportion mortality for the highest effluent concentration must be one.
2. To calculate the 95% confidence interval for the LC50 estimate, one or more of the smoothed adjusted
proportion mortalities must be between zero and one.
11.2.3.3 General Procedure
1. The first step in the estimation of the LC50 by the Spearman-Karber Method is to smooth
the observed response proportions, PJ if they do not satisfy p 0 <...
-------
3. Plot the smoothed adjusted data on 2-cycle semi-log graph paper with the logarithmic axis (the y axis)
used for percent effluent concentration and the linear axis (the x axis) used for observed percent mortality.
4. Calculate the Iog10 of the estimated LC50, m, as follows:
m =
where: p;a = the smoothed adjusted proportion mortality at concentration i
Xj = the Iog10 of concentration i
k = the number of effluent concentrations tested, not including the control.
Calculate the estimated variance of m as follows:
where: Xj = the Iog10 of concentration i
HJ = the number of organisms tested at effluent concentration i
Pj3 = the smoothed adjusted observed proportion mortality at effluent concentration i
k = the number of effluent concentrations tested, not including the control.
6. Calculate the 95% confidence interval for m: m ± 2.0 \JV(m)
7. The estimated LC50 and a 95% confidence interval for the estimated LC50 can be found by
taking base10 antilogs of the above values.
8 . With the exclusion of the plot in item 3 , the above calculations can be carried out using the
Trimmed Spearman-Karber computer program mentioned in 11.2.4.3 and 11.2.4.4.
11.2.3.4 Example Calculation
1 . Mortality data from a definitive, multi-concentration, acute toxicity test are given in Table
20. Note that the data must be smoothed and adjusted for mortality in the controls.
2. To smooth the data, the observed proportion mortality for the control, and the observed
proportion mortality for the 6.25%, 12.5%, and 25% effluent concentrations must be
averaged. The smoothed observed proportion mortalities are as follows: 0.025, 0.025,
0.025, 0.025, 0.65, and 1.00.
3. To adjust the smoothed, observed proportion mortality in each effluent concentration for
mortality in the control group, Abbott's formula must be used. After smoothing and
adjusting, the proportion mortalities for the effluent concentrations are as follows: 0.000,
0.000, 0.000; 0.641, and 1.000.
4. The data will not be plotted for this example. For an example of the plotting procedures, see
11.2.2.4.
77
-------
5. The Iog10 of the estimated LC50, m, is calculated as follows:
m = [(0.0000-0.0000)(0.7959+ 1.0969)]/2 +
[(0.0000 - 0.0000)(1.0969 + 1.3979)]/2 +
[(0.6410 - 0.0000)(1.3979 + 1.6990)]/2 +
[(1.0000 - 0.6410X1.6990 + 2.0000)]/2
= 1.656527
6. The estimated variance of m, V(m), is calculated as follows:
V(m) = (0.0000)(1.0000)(1.3979-0.7959)2/4(19) +
(0.0000)(1.0000)(1.6990 - 1.0969)2/4(19) +
(0.6410)(0.3590)(2.0000 - 1.3979)2/4(19)
= 0.0010977
7. The 95% confidence interval for m is calculated as follows:
1.656527 ± 2 ^/O.OO 10977 = (1.5902639, 1.7227901)
8. The estimated LC50 is as follows: antilog( 1.656527) = 45.3%.
9. The upper limit of the 95% confidence interval for the estimated LC50 is as follows:
antilog(1.7227901) = 52.8%
10. The lower limit of the 95% confidence interval for the estimated LC50 is as follows:
antilog(1.5902639) = 38.9%
11.2.4 THE TRIMMED SPEARMAN-KARBER METHOD
11.2.4.1 Description
1. The Trimmed Spearman-Karber Method is a modification of the Spearman-Karber nonparametric statistical
procedure for estimating the LC50 and the associated 95% confidence interval (Hamilton, et al, 1977).
2. This procedure estimates the trimmed mean of the distribution of the Iog10 of the tolerance.
If the log tolerance distribution is symmetric, this estimate of the trimmed mean is
equivalent to an estimate of the median of the log tolerance distribution.
3. Use of the Trimmed Spearman-Karber Method is only appropriate when the requirements
for the Probit Method and the Spearman-Karber Method are not met.
11.2.4.2 Requirements
1. To calculate the LC50 estimate with the Trimmed Spearman-Karber Method, the smoothed, adjusted,
observed proportion mortalities must bracket 0.5.
2. To calculate a confidence interval for the LC50 estimate, one or more of the smoothed,
adjusted, observed proportion mortalities must be between zero and one.
78
-------
11.2.4.3 General Procedure
1. Smooth the observed proportion mortalities as described in 11.2.2.3, Step 1.
2. Adjust the smoothed observed proportion mortality in each effluent concentration for
mortality in the control group using Abbott's formula (see 11.2.2.3, Step 2).
3. Plot the smoothed, adjusted data as described in 11.2.2.3, Step 3.
4. Calculate the amount of trim to use in the estimation of the LC50 as follows:
Trim = max^3, 1 - pk)
where: pja= the smoothed, adjusted proportion mortality for the lowest effluent concentration,
exclusive of the control.
pka= the smoothed, adjusted proportion mortality for the highest effluent concentration.
k = the number of effluent concentrations, exclusive of the control.
5. Due to the intensive nature of the calculation for the estimated LC50 and the calculation for the
associated 95% confidence interval using the Trimmed Spearman-Karber Method, it is recommended
that the data be analyzed by computer.
6. A computer program which estimates the LC50 and associated 95% confidence interval
using the Trimmed-Karber Method, canbe obtained through the Environmental Monitoring
and Support Laboratory (EMSL), 26 W. MartinLutherKing Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45268.
The program canbe obtained from EMSL-Cincinnati by sending a diskette with a written
request to the above address.
7. The modified program automatically performs the following functions:
a. Smoothing.
b. Adjustment for mortality in the control.
c. Calculation of the trim.
d. Calculation of the LC50.
e. Calculation of the associated 95% confidence interval.
11.2 A A Example Calculation Using the Computer Program
1. Data from Table 20 are used to illustrate the analysis using the Trimmed Spearman-Karber
program.
2. The program requests the following input (see Figure 8):
a. Output destination (D = disk file or P = printer).
b. Title for output.
c. Control data.
d. Data for each toxicant concentration.
79
-------
TRIMMED SPEARMAN-KARBER METHOD. VERSION 1.5
ENTER DATE OF TEST:
08/19/93
ENTER TEST NUMBER:
1
WHAT IS TO BE ESTIMATED?
(ENTER "L" FOR LC50 AMD "E" FOR EC50)
L , .
ENTER TEST SPECIES NAME:
Fathead minnow
ENTER TOXICANT NAME:
Effluent
ENTER UNITS FOR EXPOSURE CONCENTRATION OF TOXICANT:
%
ENTER THE NUMBER OF INDIVIDUALS IN THE CONTROL:
20
ENTER THE NUMBER OF MORTALITIES IN THE CONTROL:
1
ENTER THE NUMBER OF CONCENTRATIONS
(NOT INCLUDING THE CONTROL; MAX = 10):
5
ENTER THE 5 EXPOSURE CONCENTRATIONS (IN INCREASING ORDER):
6.25 12.5 25 50 100
ARE THE NUMBER OF INDIVIDUALS AT EACH EXPOSURE CONCENTRATION EQUALCY/N)?
y
ENTER THE NUMBER OF INDIVIDUALS AT EACH EXPOSURE CONCENTRATION:
20
ENTER UNITS FOR DURATION OF EXPERIMENT
(ENTER "H" FOR HOURS, "D" FOR DAYS, ETC.):
H
ENTER DURATION OF TEST:
96
ENTER THE NUMBER OF MORTALITIES AT EACH EXPOSURE CONCENTRATION:
0 2 0 0 16
gOULD YOU LIKE THE AUTOMATIC TRIM CALCULATION(Y/N)?
y
Figure 8. Example of input for computer program for Trimmed Spearman-Karber
Method.
80
-------
3. The program output includes the following (see Figure 9):
a. A table of the concentrations tested, number of organisms exposed, and mortalities.
b. The amount of trim used in the calculation.
c. The estimated LC50 and the associated 95% confidence interval.
4. The analysis results for this example are as follows:
a. The observed proportion mortalities smoothed and adjusted for mortality in the control.
b. The amount of trim used to calculate the estimate:
trim = max {0.00, 0.205} = 0.205.
c. The estimate of the LC50 is 77.1% with a 95% confidence interval of (69.7%, 85.3%).
11.2.5 THE PROBIT METHOD
11.2.5.1 Description
1. The Probit Method is a parametric statistical procedure for estimating the LC50 and the associated 95%
confidence interval (Finney, 1978).
2. The analysis consists of transforming the observed proportion mortalities with a probit transformation,
and transforming the effluent concentrations to Iog10.
3. Given the assumption of normality for the Iog10 of the tolerances, the relationship between the
transformed variables mentioned above is approximately linear.
4. This relationship allows estimation of linear regression parameters, using an iterative approach.
5. The estimated LC50 and associated confidence interval are calculated from the estimated linear
regression parameters.
11.2.5.2 Requirements
1. To obtain a reasonably precise estimate of the LC50 with the Probit Method, the observed proportion
mortalities must bracket 0.5.
2. The Iog10 of the tolerance is assumed to be normally distributed.
3. To calculate the LC50 estimate and associated 95% confidence interval, two or more of the observed
proportion mortalities must be between zero and one.
11.2.5.3 General Procedure
1. Due to the intensive nature of the calculations for the estimated LC50 and associated 95% confidence
interval using the Probit Method, it is recommended that the data be analyzed by a computer program.
2. A machine-readable, compiled, version of a computer program to estimate the LCI and LC50 and
associated 95% confidence intervals using the Probit Method can be obtained from EMSL-Cincinnati
by sending a diskette with a written request to the Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory, 26
W. Martin Luther King Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45268.
81
-------
TRIMMED SPEARMAN-KARBER METHOD, VERSION 1.5
DATE: 08/18/93 TEST NUMBER: 1
TOXICANT: Effluent
SPECIES: Fathead minnow
DURATION: 96 H
RAW DATA:
Concentration
(X)
Number
Exposed
Mortalities
.00
6.25
12.50
25.00
50.00
100.00
20
20
20
20
20
20
1
0
2
0
0
16
SPEARMAN -KARBER TRIM: 20.
SPEARMAN- KARBER ESTIMATES:
LC50: 77.11
95X Lower Confidence: 69.74
95X Upper Confidence: 85.26
NOTE: MORTALITY PROPORTIONS WERE NOT MONOTONICALLY INCREASING.
ADJUSTMENTS WERE MADE PRIOR TO SPEARMAN-KARBER ESTIMATION.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE A COPY SENT TO THE PRINTER(Y/N>?
Figure 9. Example of output from computer program for Trimmed
Spearman-Karber Method.
82
-------
11.2.5.4 Example Using the Computer Program
1. Data from Table 20 are used to illustrate the operation of the Probit program for calculating
the LC50 and the associated 95% confidence interval.
2. The program begins with a request for the following initial input (see Figure 10):
a. Desired output of abbreviated (A) or full (F) output?
b. Output designation (P = printer, D = disk file).
c. Title for the output.
d. Control data.
c. The number of exposure concentrations
d. Data for each toxicant concentration
3. The program output includes the following (see Figure 11):
a. A table of the observed proportion responding, and the proportion responding adjusted for controls.
b. The calculated chi-squared statistic for heterogeneity and the tabular value.
This test is one indicator of how well the data fit the model. The program
will issue a warning when the test indicates that the data do not fit the model.
c. The estimated LC50 and 95% confidence limits.
d. A plot of the fitted regression line with observed data overlaid on the plot.
4. The results of the data analysis for this example are as follows:
a. The observed proportion mortalities were not adjusted for mortality in the control.
b. The test for heterogeneity was not significant (the calculated Chi-square was less than the tabular
value), thus the Probit Method appears to be appropriate for this data.
c. The estimate of the LC50 is 22.9% with a 95% confidence interval of (18.8%, 27.8%).
11.3 DETERMINATION OF NO-OBSERVED-ADVERSE-EFFECT CONCENTRATION (NOAEC) FROM
MULTI-CONCENTRATION TESTS, AND DETERMINATION OF PASS OR FAIL (PASS/FAIL) FOR
SINGLE-CONCENTRATION (PAIRED) TESTS
11.3.1 Determination of the No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Concentration (NOAEC), for multi-concentration toxicity
tests, and pass or fail (Pass/Fail) for single-concentration toxicity tests is accomplished using hypothesis testing. The
NOAEC is the lowest concentration at which survival is not significantly different from the control. In Pass/Fail tests,
the objective is to determine if the survival in the single treatment (effluent or receiving water) is significantly different
from the control survival.
11.3.2 The first step in these analyses is to transform the responses, expressed as the proportion surviving, by the arc-
sine-square-root transformation (Figures 12 and 13). The arc-sine-square-root transformation is commonly used on
proportionality data to stabilize the variance and satisfy the normality requirement. Shapiro Wilk's test may be used to
test the normality assumption.
11.3.3 If the data do not meet the assumption of normality and there are four or more replicates per group, then the
non-parametric test, Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test, can be used to analyze the data.
11.3.4 If the data meet the assumption of normality, the F test for equality of variances is used to test the homogeneity
of variance assumption. Failure of the homogeneity of variance assumption leads to the use of a modified t test, where
the pooled variance estimate is adjusted for unequal variance, and the degrees of freedom for the test are adjusted.
83
-------
EPA PROSIT ANALYSIS PROGRAM
USED FOR CALCULATING LC/EC VALUES
Version 1.5
Do you wish abbreviated (A) of full (F) output? A
Output to printer or disk file
-------
EPA PROBIT ANALYSIS PROGRAM
USED FOR CALCULATING LC/EC VALUES
• Version 1.5
PROBIT EXAMPLE
Cone.
6.2500
12.5000
25.0000
50.0000
100.0000
Number
Exposed
20
20
20
20
20
Number
Resp.-
0
3
9
20
20
Observed
Proportion
Responding
p.000
0.1500
0.4500
1.0000
1.0000
Proportion
Responding
Adjusted for
Controls
0.000
0.1500
0.4500
1.0000
1.0000
Chi • Square for Heterogeneity (calculated) - 3.076
Chi • Square for Heterogeneity
(tabular value at 0.05 level) = 7.815
PROBIT EXAMPLE
Estimated LC/EC Values and Confidence Limits
Point
LC/EC 1.00
LC/EC 50.00
Exposure
Cone.
7.924
22.872
Lower Upper
95X Confidence Limits
4.147
18.787
10.959
27.846
Figure 11. Example of output for computer program for Probit
Method.
85
-------
DETERMINATION OF PASS OR FAIL
FROM A SINGLE -EFaUihfT-GOMCENTRATION
ACUTE TOXiCtY TEST
SURVIVAL DATA
PROPORTION SURVIVING
ARC SINE
TRANSFORMATKDN
T
NORMALITY? . ..',,
(SHAPtRO-WIUCS TEST)
NO
WILCOXON RANK
SUM TEST
YES
HOMOGENEITY OF VARIANCE
(F-TEST)
YES
SIGNIFICANT DJFF.
IN SURVIVAL?
YES
t
FAIL
Figure 12. Flowchart for analysis of single-effluent concentration test data.
86
-------
DETERMINATION OF THE NOAEG
FROM A MULTI-EFFLUENT-CONCENTRATION
ACUTE TOXICITY TEST
SURVIVAL DATA
PROPORTION SURVIVING
ARC SINE
TRANSFORMATION
NORMALITY?
(SHAPIRO-WIUCS TEST)
NO
YES
YES
HOMOGENEITY OF VARIANCE
(BARTLETTS TEST)
NO
NO
EQUAL NUMBER OF
REPLICATES?
EQUAL NUMBER OF
REPLICATES?
NO
YES
YES
T-TESTWITH
BONFERRONI
ADJUSTMENT
DUNNETTS
TEST
STEEL'S MANY-ONE
RANKTEST
WILCOXON RANK SUM
TEST WITH
BONFERRONI ADJUSTMENT
ENDPOINT ESTIMATES
NOAEC
Figure 13. Flowchart for analysis of multi-effluent-concentration test data.
87
-------
11.3.5 GENERAL PROCEDURE
11.3.5.1 Arc Sine Square Root Transformation
11.3.5.1.1 The arc sine square root transformation consists of determining the angle (in radians) represented by a sine
value. In this transformation, the proportion surviving is taken as the sine value, the square root of the sine value is
calculated, and the angle (in radians) for the square root of the sine value is determined. Whenever the proportion
surviving is 0 or 1, a special modification of the transformation must be used (Bartlett, 1937). Illustrations of the arc
sine square root transformation and modification are provided below.
1. Calculate the response proportion (RP) for each replicate within a group, where:
RP = (number of surviving organisms)/(number exposed)
2. Transform each RP to arc sine, as follows.
a. For RPs greater than zero or less than one:
Angle (in radians) = arc sine\J(RP)
b. Modification of the arc sine when RP = 0.
Angle (in radians) = arc sine
\n
where n = number animals/treatment rep.
c. Modification of the arc sine when RP =1.0.
Angle = 1.5708 radians - (radians for RP=Q)
11.3.5.2 Shapiro Wilk's Test
11.3.5.2.1 After the data have been transformed, test the assumption of normality using Shapiro Wilk's test. The test
statistic, W, is obtained by dividing the square of an appropriate linear combination of the sample order statistics by the
usual symmetric estimate of variance (D). The calculated W must be greater than zero and less than or equal to one.
This test is recommended for a sample size of 50 or less, and there must be more than two replicates per concentration
for the test to be valid.
1. To calculate W, first center the observations by subtracting the mean of all the observations within a
concentration from each observation in that concentration.
2. Calculate the denominator, D, of the test statistic:
where: Xj = the ith centered observation
X = the overall mean of the centered observations.
-------
3 . Order the centered observations from smallest to largest.
where: X(l) denotes the ith ordered observation.
4. From Table 21, for the number of observations, n, obtain the coefficients ab a2, ..., ak, where k is n/2 if n
is even, and (n - l)/2 if n is odd.
5. Compute the test statistic, W, as follows:
i k
W = — [£a (X("-<+1)
D i=i
11.3.5.2.2 The decision rule for the test is to compare the critical value from Table 22 to the computed W. If the
computed value is less than the critical value, conclude that the data are not normally distributed.
11.3.5.3 FTest
11.3.5.3.1 The F test for equality of variances is used to test the homogeneity of variance assumption. When
conducting the F test, the alternative hypothesis of interest is that the variances are not equal.
11.3.5.3.2 To make the two-tailed F test at the 0.01 level of significance, put the larger of the two sample variances in
the numerator of F.
F = — where Sl >S2
C*
11.3.5.3.3 Compare the calculated F with the 0.005 level of a tabulated F value with nrl andn2-l degrees of freedom,
where n{ and n2 are the number of replicates for each of the two groups (Snedecor and Cochran, 1980). If the
calculated F value is less than or equal to the tabulated F, conclude that the variances of the two groups are equal.
11.3.5.4 TTest
11.3.5.4.1 If the variances for the two groups are found to be statistically equivalent, then the equal variance t test is
the appropriate test.
89
-------
TABLE 21. COEFFICIENTS FOR THE SHAPIRO WILK'S TEST (CONOVER, 1980)
i\n
1
2
3
4
5
2
0.7071
-
-
-
-
3
0.7071
0.0000
-
-
-
4
0.6872
0.1667
-
-
-
5
0.6646
0.2413
0.0000
-
-
6
0.6431
0.2806
0.0875
-
-
7
0.6233
0.3031
0.1401
0.0000
-
8
0.6052
0.3164
0.1743
0.0561
-
9
0.5888
0.3244
0.1976
0.0947
0.0000
10
0.5739
0.3291
0.2141
0.1224
0.0399
i\n
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
0.5601
0.3315
0.2260
0.1429
0.0695
0.0000
-
-
-
-
12
0.5475
0.3325
0.2347
0.1586
0.0922
0.0303
-
-
-
-
13
0.5359
0.3325
0.2412
0.1707
0.1099
0.0539
0.0000
-
-
-
14
0.5251
0.3318
0.2460
0.1802
0.1240
0.0727
0.0240
-
-
-
15
0.5150
0.3306
0.2495
0.1878
0.1353
0.0880
0.0433
0.0000
-
-
16
0.5056
0.3290
0.2521
0.1939
0.1447
0.1005
0.0593
0.0196
-
-
17
0.4968
0.3273
0.2540
0.1988
0.1524
0.1109
0.0725
0.0359
0.0000
-
18
0.4886
0.3253
0.2553
0.2027
0.1587
0.1197
0.0837
0.0496
0.0163
-
19
0.4808
0.3232
0.2561
0.2059
0.1641
0.1271
0.0932
0.0612
0.0303
0.0000
20
0.4734
0.3211
0.2565
0.2085
0.1686
0.1334
0.1013
0.0711
0.0422
0.0140
i\n
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
21
0.4643
0.3185
0.2578
0.2119
0.1736
0.1399
0.1092
0.0804
0.0530
0.0263
0.0000
-
-
-
-
22
0.4590
0.3156
0.2571
0.2131
0.1764
0.1443
0.1150
0.0878
0.0618
0.0368
0.0122
-
-
-
-
23
0.4542
0.3126
0.2563
0.2139
0.1787
0.1480
0.1201
0.0941
0.0696
0.0459
0.0228
0.0000
-
-
-
24
0.4493
0.3098
0.2554
0.2145
0.1807
0.1512
0.1245
0.0997
0.0764
0.0539
0.0321
0.0107
-
-
-
25
0.4450
0.3069
0.2543
0.2148
0.1822
0.1539
0.1283
0.1046
0.0823
0.0610
0.0403
0.0200
0.0000
-
-
26
0.4407
0.3043
0.2533
0.2151
0.1836
0.1563
0.1316
0.1089
0.0876
0.0672
0.0476
0.0284
0.0094
-
-
27
0.4366
0.3018
0.2522
0.2152
0.1848
0.1584
0.1346
0.1128
0.0923
0.0728
0.0540
0.0358
0.0178
0.0000
-
28
0.4328
0.2992
0.2510
0.2151
0.1857
0.1601
0.1372
0.1162
0.0965
0.0778
0.0598
0.0424
0.0253
0.0084
-
29
0.4291
0.2968
0.2499
0.2150
0.1864
0.1616
0.1395
0.1192
0.1002
0.0822
0.0650
0.0483
0.0320
0.0159
0.0000
30
0.4254
0.2944
0.2487
0.2148
0.1870
0.1630
0.1415
0.1219
0.1036
0.0862
0.0697
0.0537
0.0381
0.0227
0.0076
90
-------
TABLE 21. COEFFICIENTS FOR THE SHAPIRO WILK'S TEST (CONTINUED)
i\n
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
31
0.4220
0.2921
0.2475
0.2145
0.1874
0.1641
0.1433
0.1243
0.1066
0.0899
0.0739
0.0585
0.0435
0.0289
0.0144
0.0000
-
-
-
-
32
0.4188
0.2898
0.2462
0.2141
0.1878
0.1651
0.1449
0.1265
0.1093
0.0931
0.0777
0.0629
0.0485
0.0344
0.0206
0.0068
-
-
-
-
33
0.4156
0.2876
0.2451
0.2137
0.1880
0.1660
0.1463
0.1284
0.1118
0.0961
0.0812
0.0669
0.0530
0.0395
0.0262
0.0131
0.0000
-
-
-
34
0.4127
0.2854
0.2439
0.2132
0.1882
0.1667
0.1475
0.1301
0.1140
0.0988
0.0844
0.0706
0.0572
0.0441
0.0314
0.0187
0.0062
-
-
-
35
0.4096
0.2834
0.2427
0.2127
0.1883
0.1673
0.1487
0.1317
0.1160
0.1013
0.0873
0.0739
0.0610
0.0484
0.0361
0.0239
0.0119
0.0000
-
-
36
0.4068
0.2813
0.2415
0.2121
0.1883
0.1678
0.1496
0.1331
0.1179
0.1036
0.0900
0.0770
0.0645
0.0523
0.0404
0.0287
0.0172
0.0057
-
-
37
0.4040
0.2794
0.2403
0.2116
0.1883
0.1683
0.1505
0.1344
0.1196
0.1056
0.0924
0.0798
0.0677
0.0559
0.0444
0.0331
0.0220
0.0110
0.0000
-
38
0.4015
0.2774
0.2391
0.2110
0.1881
0.1686
0.1513
0.1356
0.1211
0.1075
0.0947
0.0824
0.0706
0.0592
0.0481
0.0372
0.0264
0.0158
0.0053
-
39
0.3989
0.2755
0.2380
0.2104
0.1880
0.1689
0.1520
0.1366
0.1225
0.1092
0.0967
0.0848
0.0733
0.0622
0.0515
0.0409
0.0305
0.0203
0.0101
0.0000
40
0.3964
0.2737
0.2368
0.2098
0.1878
0.1691
0.1526
0.1376
0.1237
0.1108
0.0986
0.0870
0.0759
0.0651
0.0546
0.0444
0.0343
0.0244
0.0146
0.0049
i\n
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
41
0.3940
0.2719
0.2357
0.2091
0.1876
0.1693
0.1531
0.1384
0.1249
0.1123
0.1004
0.0891
0.0782
0.0677
0.0575
0.0476
0.0379
0.0283
0.0188
0.0094
0.0000
-
-
-
-
42
0.3917
0.2701
0.2345
0.2085
0.1874
0.1694
0.1535
0.1392
0.1259
0.1136
0.1020
0.0909
0.0804
0.0701
0.0602
0.0506
0.0411
0.0318
0.0227
0.0136
0.0045
-
-
-
-
43
0.3894
0.2684
0.2334
0.2078
0.1871
0.1695
0.1539
0.1398
0.1269
0.1149
0.1035
0.0927
0.0824
0.0724
0.0628
0.0534
0.0442
0.0352
0.0263
0.0175
0.0087
0.0000
-
-
-
44
0.3872
0.2667
0.2323
0.2072
0.1868
0.1695
0.1542
0.1405
0.1278
0.1160
0.1049
0.0943
0.0842
0.0745
0.0651
0.0560
0.0471
0.0383
0.0296
0.0211
0.0126
0.0042
-
-
-
45
0.3850
0.2651
0.2313
0.2065
0.1865
0.1695
0.1545
0.1410
0.1286
0.1170
0.1062
0.0959
0.0860
0.0765
0.0673
0.0584
0.0497
0.0412
0.0328
0.0245
0.0163
0.0081
0.0000
-
-
46
0.3830
0.2635
0.2302
0.2058
0.1862
0.1695
0.1548
0.1415
0.1293
0.1180
0.1073
0.0972
0.0876
0.0783
0.0694
0.0607
0.0522
0.0439
0.0357
0.0277
0.0197
0.0118
0.0039
-
-
47
0.3808
0.2620
0.2291
0.2052
0.1859
0.1695
0.1550
0.1420
0.1300
0.1189
0.1085
0.0986
0.0892
0.0801
0.0713
0.0628
0.0546
0.0465
0.0385
0.0307
0.0229
0.0153
0.0076
0.0000
-
48
0.3789
0.2604
0.2281
0.2045
0.1855
0.1693
0.1551
0.1423
0.1306
0.1197
0.1095
0.0998
0.0906
0.0817
0.0731
0.0648
0.0568
0.0489
0.0411
0.0335
0.0259
0.0185
0.0111
0.0037
-
49
0.3770
0.2589
0.2271
0.2038
0.1851
0.1692
0.1553
0.1427
0.1312
0.1205
0.1105
0.1010
0.0919
0.0832
0.0748
0.0667
0.0588
0.0511
0.0436
0.0361
0.0288
0.0215
0.0143
0.0071
0.0000
50
0.3751
0.2574
0.2260
0.2032
0.1847
0.1691
0.1554
0.1430
0.1317
0.1212
0.1113
0.1020
0.0932
0.0846
0.0764
0.0685
0.0608
0.0532
0.0459
0.0386
0.0314
0.0244
0.0174
0.0104
0.0035
91
-------
TABLE 22. QUANTILES OF THE SHAPIRO WILK'S TEST STATISTIC1 (CONOVER, 1980)
n
o
J
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
0.01
0.753
0.687
0.686
0.713
0.730
0.749
0.764
0.781
0.792
0.805
0.814
0.825
0.835
0.844
0.851
0.858
0.863
0.868
0.873
0.878
0.881
0.884
0.888
0.891
0.894
0.896
0.898
0.900
0.902
0.904
0.906
0.908
0.910
0.912
0.914
0.916
0.917
0.919
0.920
0.922
0.923
0.924
0.926
0.927
0.928
0.929
0.929
0.930
0.02
0.756
0.707
0.715
0.743
0.760
0.778
0.791
0.806
0.817
0.828
0.837
0.846
0.855
0.863
0.869
0.874
0.879
0.884
0.888
0.892
0.895
0.898
0.901
0.904
0.906
0.908
0.910
0.912
0.914
0.915
0.917
0.919
0.920
0.922
0.924
0.925
0.927
0.928
0.929
0.930
0.932
0.933
0.934
0.935
0.936
0.937
0.937
0.938
0.05
0.767
0.748
0.762
0.788
0.803
0.818
0.829
0.842
0.850
0.859
0.866
0.874
0.881
0.887
0.892
0.897
0.901
0.905
0.908
0.911
0.914
0.916
0.918
0.920
0.923
0.924
0.926
0.927
0.929
0.930
0.931
0.933
0.934
0.935
0.936
0.938
0.939
0.940
0.941
0.942
0.943
0.944
0.945
0.945
0.946
0.947
0.947
0.947
0.10
0.789
0.792
0.806
0.826
0.838
0.851
0.859
0.869
0.876
0.883
0.889
0.895
0.901
0.906
0.910
0.914
0.917
0.920
0.923
0.926
0.928
0.930
0.931
0.933
0.935
0.936
0.937
0.939
0.940
0.941
0.942
0.943
0.944
0.945
0.946
0.947
0.948
0.949
0.950
0.951
0.951
0.952
0.953
0.953
0.954
0.954
0.955
0.955
0.50
0.959
0.935
0.927
0.927
0.928
0.932
0.935
0.938
0.940
0.943
0.945
0.947
0.950
0.952
0.954
0.956
0.957
0.959
0.960
0.961
0.962
0.963
0.964
0.965
0.965
0.966
0.966
0.967
0.967
0.968
0.968
0.969
0.969
0.970
0.970
0.971
0.971
0.972
0.972
0.972
0.973
0.973
0.973
0.974
0.974
0.974
0.974
0.974
0.90
0.998
0.987
0.979
0.974
0.972
0.972
0.972
0.972
0.973
0.973
0.974
0.975
0.975
0.976
0.977
0.978
0.978
0.979
0.980
0.980
0.981
0.981
0.981
0.982
0.982
0.982
0.982
0.983
0.983
0.983
0.983
0.983
0.984
0.984
0.984
0.984
0.984
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.95
0.999
0.992
0.986
0.981
0.979
0.978
0.978
0.978
0.979
0.979
0.979
0.980
0.980
0.981
0.981
0.982
0.982
0.983
0.983
0.984
0.984
0.984
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.985
0.986
0.986
0.986
0.986
0.986
0.986
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.98
1.000
0.996
0.991
0.986
0.985
0.984
0.984
0.983
0.984
0.984
0.984
0.984
0.984
0.985
0.985
0.986
0.986
0.986
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.99
1.000
0.997
0.993
0.989
0.988
0.987
0.986
0.986
0.986
0.986
0.986
0.986
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.988
0.988
0.988
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.990
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.991
92
-------
11.3.5.4.2 Calculate the following test statistic:
where: Xj = Mean for the control
X, = Mean for the effluent concentration
Z
S> = »1+»2-2
S[2 = Estimate of the variance for the control
S22 = Estimate of the variance for the effluent concentration
U[ = Number of replicates for the control
n2 = Number of replicates for the effluent concentration
11.3.5.4.3 Since we are concerned with a decrease in survival from the control, a one-tailed test is appropriate. Thus,
compare the calculated t with a critical t, where the critical t is at the 5% level of significance with nl+n2-2 degrees of
freedom. If the calculated t exceeds the critical t, the mean responses are declared different.
11.3.5.5 Modified T Test
11.3.5.5.1 If the F test for equality of variance fails, the t test is still a valid test. However, the denominator and the
degrees of freedom for the test are modified.
11.3.5.5.2 The t statistic, with the modification for the denominator, is calculated as follows:
X, -X,
t=
\ "i "2
where: Xj = Mean for the control
X2 = Mean for the effluent concentration
Sj2 = Estimate of the variance for the control
S22 = Estimate of the variance for the effluent concentration
H! = Number of replicates for the control
n2 = Number of replicates for the effluent concentration
93
-------
11.3.5.5.3 Additionally, the degrees of freedom for the test are adjusted using the following formula:
df = .("''1)("2l\)
11.3.5.5.4 The modified degrees of freedom is usually not an integer. Common practice is to round down to the
nearest integer.
11.3.5.5.5 The modified t test is then performed in the same way as the equal variance t test. The calculated t is
compared to the critical t at the 0.05 significance level with modified degrees of freedom. If the calculated t exceeds
the critical t, the mean responses are found to be statistically different.
11.3.5.6 Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test
11.3.5.6.1 If the data fail the test for normality and there are four or more replicates per group, the non-parametric
Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test may be used to analyze the data. If less than four replicates were used, a non-parametric
alternative is not available.
11.3.5.6.2 The Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test consists of jointly ranking the data and calculating the rank sum for the
effluent concentration. The rank sum is then compared to a critical value to determine acceptance or rejection of the
null hypothesis.
11.3.5.6.3 To carry out the test, combine the data for the control and the effluent concentration and arrange the values
in order of size from smallest to largest. Assign ranks to the ordered observations, a rank of 1 to the smallest, 2 to the
next smallest, etc. If ties in rank occur, assign the average rank to each tied observation. Sum the ranks for the effluent
concentration.
11.3.5.6.4 If the survival in the effluent concentration is significantly less than that of the control, the rank sum for the
effluent concentration would be lower than the rank sum of the control. Thus, we are only concerned with comparing
the rank sum for the effluent concentration with some "minimum" or critical rank sum, at or below which the effluent
concentration survival would be considered to be significantly lower than the mortality in the control. For a test at the
5% level of significance, the critical rank sum can be found in Table 23.
94
-------
TABLE 23. CRITICAL VALUES FOR WILCOXON'S RANK SUM TEST FIVE PERCENT CRITICAL
LEVEL
,,-n ,. No. of Replicates per Effluent Concentration
in Control
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
o
J
6
7
8
8
9
10
10
4
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
5
16
17
19
20
21
23
24
26
6
23
24
26
28
29
31
33
35
7
30
32
34
36
39
41
43
45
8
39
41
44
46
49
51
54
56
9
49
51
54
57
60
63
66
69
10
59
62
66
69
72
72
79
82
11.3.6 SINGLE CONCENTRATION TEST
11.3.6.1 Data from an acute effluent toxicity test with Ceriodaphnia are provided in Table 24. The proportion surviving
in each replicate is transformed by the arc sine square root transformation prior to statistical analysis of the data (Figure 12).
TABLE 24. DATA FROM AN ACUTE SINGLE-CONCENTRATION TOXICITY TEST WITH
CERIODAPHNIA
RAW
DATA
ARC SINE
TRANSFORMED
DATA
Replicate
A
B
C
D
A
B
C
D
X
S2
Proportion
Control
1.00
1.00
0.90
0.90
1.412
1.412
1.249
1.249
1.330
0.0088
Surviving
100% Effluent
Concentration
0.40
0.30
0.40
0.20
0.685
0.580
0.685
0.464
0.604
0.0111
95
-------
TABLE 25. EXAMPLE OF SHAPIRO WILK'S TEST: CENTERED OBSERVATIONS
Treatment
Control
100% Effluent
A
0.082
0.081
B
0.082
-0.024
Replicate
C
-0.081
0.081
D
-0.081
-0.140
11.3.6.2 After the data have been transformed, test the assumption of normality via the Shapiro Wilk's test.
11.3.6.2.1 The first step in the test for normality is to center the observations by subtracting the mean of all observations
within a concentration from each observation in that concentration. The centered observations are listed in Table 25.
11.3.6.2.2 Calculate the denominator, D, of the test statistic:
For this set of data, X = 0 and D = 0.060.
11.3.6.2.3 Order the centered observations from smallest to largest. The ordered observations are listed in Table 26.
11.3.6.2.4 From Table 21, for n = 8 and k = n/2 = 4, obtain the coefficients ab a2,..., ak. The ^ values are listed in
Table 27.
11.3.6.2.5 Compute the test statistic, W, as follows:
W = —— • (0.2200)2 = 0.0807
0.060
The differences, X(IH+1)-X®, are listed in Table 27.
11.3.6.2.6 From Table 22, the critical W value for n = 8 and a significance level of 0.01, is 0.749. Since the calculated
W, 0.807, is not less than the critical value the conclusion of the test is that the data are normally distributed.
TABLE 26. EXAMPLE OF SHAPIRO WILK'S TEST: ORDERED
OBSERVATIONS
i
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
X®
-0.140
-0.081
-0.081
-0.024
0.081
0.081
0.082
0.082
96
-------
TABLE 27. EXAMPLE OF SHAPIRO WILK'S TEST: TABLE OF COEFFICIENTS AND DIFFERENCES
i a, x(n-1+D.x©
1
2
3
4
0.6052
0.3164
0.1743
0.0561
0.222
0.163
0.162
0.105
X(8) . X(D
X(7) . X(2)
X(6).X(3)
X(5) . X(4)
11.3.6.3 The F test for equality of variances is used to test the homogeneity of variance assumption.
11.3.6.3.1 From Table 24, obtain the sample variances for the control and the 100% effluent. Since the variability of
the 100% effluent is greater than the variability of the control, S2 for the 100% effluent concentration is placed in the
numerator of the F statistic and S2 for the control is placed in the denominator.
=1.2614
0.0088
11.3.6.3.2 There are four replicates for the control and four replicates for the 100% effluent concentration. Thus there
are three degrees of freedom for the numerator and the denominator. For a two-tailed test at the 0.01 level of
significance, the critical F value is 47.467. The calculated F, 1.2614, is less than the critical F, 47.467, thus the
conclusion is that the variances of the control and 100% effluent are equal.
11.3.6.4 The assumptions of normality and homogeneity of variance have been met for this data set. An equal
variance t test will be used to compare the mean responses of the control and 100% effluent.
11.3.6.4.1 To perform the t test, obtain the values for Xb X2, S^, and S 22 from Table 24. Calculate the t statistic as
follows:
1.330-0.604
0.0997
4 4
where:
s _v/(4-l)0.0088+(4-l)(0.0111)
p 4+4-2
11.3.6.4.2 For a one-tailed test at the 0.05 level of significance with 6 degrees of freedom, the critical t value is
1.9432. Since the calculated t, 10.298, is greater than the critical t, the conclusion is that the survival in the 100%
effluent concentration is significantly less than the survival in the control.
11.3.6.5 If the data had failed the normality assumption, the appropriate analysis would have been the Wilcoxon Rank
Sum Test. To provide an example of this test, the survival data from the t test example will be reanalyzed by the
nonparametric procedure.
11.3.6.5.1 The first step in the Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test is to combine the data from the control and the 100% effluent
concentration and arrange the values in order of size, from smallest to largest.
11.3.6.5.2 Assign ranks to the ordered observations, a rank of 1 to the smallest, 2 to the next smallest, etc. The
combined data with ranks assigned is presented in Table 28.
97
-------
TABLE 28. EXAMPLE OF WILCOXON'S RANK SUM TEST: ASSIGNING RANKS TO THE
CONTROL AND 100% EFFLUENT CONCENTRATIONS
Rank
1
2
3.5
3.5
5.5
5.5
7.5
7.5
Proportion Surviving
0.20
0.30
0.40
0.40
0.90
0.90
1.00
1.00
Control or 100% Effluent
100% EFFLUENT
100% EFFLUENT
100% EFFLUENT
100% EFFLUENT
CONTROL
CONTROL
CONTROL
CONTROL
11.3.6.5.3 Sum the ranks for the 100% effluent concentration.
11.3.6.5.4 For this set of data, the test is for a significant reduction in survival in the 100% effluent concentration as
compared to the control. The critical value, from Table 23, for four replicates in each group and a significance level of
0.05 is 11. The rank sum for the 100% effluent concentration is 10 which is less than the critical value of 11. Thus the
conclusion is that survival in the effluent concentration is significantly less than the control survival.
11.3.7 MULTI-CONCENTRATION TEST
11.3.7.1 Formal statistical analysis of the survival data is outlined inFigure 13. The response used in the analysis is
the proportion of animals surviving in each test or control chamber. Concentrations at which there is no survival in any
of the test chambers are excluded from statistical determination of the NOAEC.
11.3.7.2 For the case of equal numbers of replicates across all concentrations and the control, the determination of the
NOAEC endpoint is made via a parametric test, Dunnett's Procedure, or a nonparametric test, Steel's Many-one Rank
Test, on the arc sine transformed data. Underlying assumptions of Dunnett's Procedure, normality and homogeneity of
variance, are formally tested. The test for normality is the Shapiro Wilk's Test, and Bartlett's Test is used to test for the
homogeneity of variance. If either of these tests fail, the nonparametric test, Steel's Many-one Rank Test, is used to
determine the NOAEC endpoints. If the assumptions of Dunnett's Procedure are met, the endpoints are estimated by
the parametric procedure.
11.3.7.3 If unequal numbers of replicates occur among the concentration levels tested, there are parametric and
nonparametric alternative analyses. The parametric analysis is a t-test with a Bonferroni adjustment. The Wilcoxon
Rank Sum Test with the Bonferroni adjustment is the nonparametric alternative.
11.3.7.4 Example of Analysis of Survival Data
11.3.7.4.1 This example uses survival data from a fathead minnow test. The proportion surviving in each replicate
must first be transformed by the arc sine square root transformation procedure. The raw and transformed data, means
and standard deviations of the transformed observations at each toxicant concentration and control are listed in Table
29. A plot of the survival proportions is provided in Figure 14.
98
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11.3.7.4.2 Test for Normality
1 . The first step of the test for normality is to center the observations by subtracting the mean of all
observations within a concentration from each observation in that concentration. The centered
observations are summarized in Table 30.
TABLE 29. FATHEAD MINNOW SURVIVAL DATA
Toxicant Concentration (ug/L)
RAW
ARC SINE
TRANS-
FORMED
MEAN(Y)
s,2
i
Replicate Control
A 1.0
B 1.0
C 0.9
D 0.9
A 1.412
B 1.412
C 1.249
D 1.249
1.330
0.0088
1
TABLE 30. CENTERED
32
0.8
0.8
1.0
0.8
1.107
1.107
1.412
1.107
1.183
0.0232
2
64
0.9
.0
.0
.0
.249
.412
.412
.412
1.371
0.0066
3
OBSERVATIONS FOR
128
0.9
0.9
0.8
1.0
1.249
1.249
1.107
1.412
1.254
0.0155
4
256
0.7
0.9
1.0
0.5
0.991
1.249
1.412
0.785
1.109
0.0768
5
512
0.4
0.3
0.4
0.2
0.685
0.580
0.685
0.464
0.604
0.0111
6
SHAPIRO WILK'S EXAMPLE
Toxicant Concentration
Replicate
A
B
C
D
Control
0.082
0.082
-0.081
-0.081
32
-0.076
-0.076
0.229
-0.076
64
-0.122
0.041
0.041
0.041
128
-0.005
-0.005
-0.147
0.158
(Hg/L)
256
-0.118
0.140
0.303
-0.324
512
0.081
-0.024
0.081
-0.140
2. Calculate the denominator, D, of the statistic:
n
D=YJ(Xl-X)2
where: Xj = the ith centered observation
X = the overall mean of the centered observations
n = the total number of centered observations
3. For this set of data: n = 24 (number of observations)
100
-------
X = — (0.000) = 0.000
24
D = 0.4265
4. Order the centered observations from smallest to largest
x(1)< x(2)< ... < x(n)
where: X(l) denotes the ith ordered observation.
The ordered observations for this example are listed in Table 31.
TABLE 31. ORDERED CENTERED OBSERVATIONS FOR THE SHAPIRO WILK'S EXAMPLE
i X(l)
1 -0.324
2 -0.147
3 -0.140
4 -0.122
5 -0.118
6 -0.081
7 -0.081
8 -0.076
9 -0.076
10 -0.076
11 -0.024
12 -0.005
i
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
x©
-0.005
0.041
0.041
0.041
0.081
0.081
0.082
0.082
0.140
0.158
0.229
0.303
5. From Table 21, for the number of observations, n, obtain the coefficients ab a2, . . . ak, where k is
approximately n/2 if n is even; (n- 1 )/2 if n is odd. For the data in this example, n=24 and k= 1 2 . The
values are listed in Table 32.
6. Compute the test statistic, W, as follows:
, k
— [t
D 2 = 1
, k
W = —
The differences x(n"1+1)-X(l) are listed in Table 32. For the data in this example,
W = —(0.6444)2 = 0.974
0.4265
7. The decision rule for this test is to compare W as calculated in #6 to a critical value found in Table 23. If the
computed W is less than the critical value, conclude that the data are not normally distributed. For the data in
this example, the critical value at a significance level of 0.01 and n = 24 observations is 0.884. Since W =
0.974 is greater than the critical value, conclude that the data are normally distributed.
101
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TABLE 32. COEFFICIENTS AND DIFFERENCES FOR SHAPIRO WILK'S EXAMPLE
i 3; Xni -X1
1 0.4493
2 0.3098
3 0.2554
4 0.2145
5 0.1807
6 0.1512
7 0.1245
8 0.0997
9 0.0764
10 0.0539
11 0.0321
12 0.0107
0.627
0.376
0.298
0.262
0.200
0.163
0.162
0.157
0.117
0.117
0.065
0.0
X(24).X(1)
X(23).X(2)
X(22).X(3)
X(21).X(4)
X(20).X(5)
X(19) _ x(6)
X(18).X(7)
X(17).X(8)
X(16).X(9)
X(15) _ X(10)
x(14) _X(H)
X(13).X(12)
1 1.3.7.4.3 Test for Homogeneity of Variance
1 . The test used to examine whether the variation in mean proportion surviving is the same across all
toxicant concentrations including the control, is Bartlett's Test (Snedecor and Cochran, 1980). The test
statistic is as follows:
F) In S - EF In S
B =
where: V; = degrees of freedom for each toxicant concentration and control, V; = (^ - 1)
HJ = the number of replicates for concentration i.
In = loge
i = 1, 2,..., p where p is the number of concentrations including the control
For the data in this example, (See Table 29) all toxicant concentrations including the control have the
same number of replicates (r^ = 4 for all i). Thus, V; = 3 for all i.
102
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3. Bartlett's statistic is therefore:
p
B = [(18)1«(0.0236) - 3El«OSf)]/1.1296
Z=l
= [18(-3.7465) - 3(-24.7516)]/1.1296
= 6.8178/1.1296
= 6.036
4. B is approximately distributed as chi square with p -1 degrees of freedom, when the variances are in fact
the same. Therefore, the appropriate critical value for this test, at a significance level of 0.01 with five
degrees of freedom, is 15.086. Since B = 6.036 is less than the critical value of 15.086, conclude that the
variances are not different.
11.3.7.4.4 Dunnett's Procedure
1. To obtain an estimate of the pooled variance for the Dunnett's Procedure, construct an ANOVA table
(Table 33).
TABLE 33. ANOVA TABLE
Source
BETWEEN
WITHIN
Total
Sum of Squares
DF (SS)
P - 1 SSB
N-P SSW
N - 1 SST
Mean Square (MS)
(SS/DF)
SB2 = SSB/(P-1)
Sw2 = SSW/(N-P)
where: p = number toxicant concentrations including the control
N = total number of observations n{ + n2... + np
HJ = number of observations in concentration i
Between Sum of Squares
SSW = SST-SSB
Total Sum of Squares
Within Sum of Squares
103
-------
p
G = the grand total of all sample observations, G=T.Ti
z = l
Tj = the total of the replicate measurements for concentration "i"
YJJ = the jth observation for concentration "i" (represents the proportion surviving for
toxicant concentration i in test chamber j)
2. For the data in this example:
N = 24
T = Y +Y +Y +Y = 5399
J-i J- 11 ^ J- 12 ^ J- B ^ J- 14 -J.J-t-t-
T2 = Y21+Y22 + Y23 + Y24 = 4.733
T3 = Y31+Y32 + Y33 + Y34 = 5.485
T4 = Y41+Y42 + Y43 + Y44 = 5.017
T5 = Y51+Y52 + Y53 + Y54 = 4.437
T6 = ¥„+¥„ + ¥« + ¥« = 2.414
G = T1+T2 + T3 + T4 + T5 + T6= 27.408
1(131.495) - (2- = 1.574
4 24
= 33.300 - ') = 2.000
24
SSW = SST-SSB =2.000-1.574 = 0.4260
SB2 = SSB/(p-l) = 1.5747(6-1) =0.3150
Sw2 = SSW/(N - p) = 0.4267(24 - 6) = 0.024
5. Summarize these calculations in the ANOVA table (Table 34).
104
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TABLE 34. ANOVA TABLE FOR DUNNETT'S PROCEDURE EXAMPLE
Source
BETWEEN
WITHIN
Total
DF
5
18
23
Sum of Squares
(SS)
1.574
0.426
2.002
Mean Square (MS)
(SS/DF)
0.315
0.024
4. To perform the individual comparisons, calculate the t statistic for each concentration, and control
combination as follows:
,_
where: Y; = mean proportion surviving for concentration i
Yj = mean proportion surviving for the control
Sw = square root of within mean square
H! = number of replicates for control
HJ = number of replicates for concentration i.
5. Table 35 includes the calculated t values for each concentration and control combination. In this example,
comparing the 32 ug/L concentration with the control the calculation is as follows:
(1.330 - 1.183)
[0.155^(1/4) + (1/4)]
6. Since the purpose of this test is to detect a significant reduction in proportion surviving, a one-sided test is
appropriate. The critical value for this one-sided test is found in Table 36. For an overall alpha level of
0.05, 18 degrees of freedom for error and five concentrations (excluding the control) the critical value is
2.41. The mean proportion surviving for concentration "i" is considered significantly less than the mean
proportion surviving for the control if tj is greater than the critical value. Since t is greater than 2.41, the
512 ug/L concentration has significantly lower survival than the control. Hence the NOAEC for survival is
256 ug/L.
105
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TABLE 35. CALCULATED T VALUES
Toxicant Concentration (ug/L)
32 2 1.341
64 3 -0.374
128 4 0.693
256 5 2.016
_ 512 _ 6 _ 6.624 _
7. To quantify the sensitivity of the test, the minimum significant difference (MSD) that can be detected
statistically may be calculated.
MSD = dSllnJ + (1/w)
where: d = the critical value for the Dunnett's procedure
Sw = the square root of the within mean square
n = the common number of replicates at each concentration (this assumes equal replication
at each concentration)
HJ = the number of replicates in the control.
8. In this example:
MSD = 2.41(0.155V(l/4) + (1/4)
= 2.41(0.155)(0.707)
= 0.264
9. The MSD (0.264) is in transformed units. To determine the MSD in terms of percent survival, carry out the
following conversion.
(1) Subtract the MSD from the transformed control mean.
1.330-0.264= 1.066
(2) Obtain the untransformed values for the control mean and the difference calculated in 1.
[Sine (1.330) ]2 = 0.943
[Sine (1.066) ]2 = 0.766
(3) The untransformed MSD (MSDU) is determined by subtracting the untransformed values from 2.
MSDU = 0.943-0.766 = 0.177
10. Therefore, for this set of data, the minimum difference in mean proportion surviving between the control and
any toxicant concentration that can be detected as statistically significant is 0.177.
11. This represents a decrease in survival of 19% from the control.
106
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SECTION 12
REPORT PREPARATION AND TEST REVIEW
12.1 REPORT PREPARATION
The following general format and content are recommended for the report:
12.1.1 INTRODUCTION
1. Permit number
2. Toxicity testing requirements of permit
3. Plant location
4. Name of receiving water body
5. Contractor (if contracted)
a. Name of firm
b. Phone number
c. Address
6. Objective of test
12.1.2 PLANT OPERATIONS
1. Product(s)
2. Raw materials
3. Operating schedule
4. Description of waste treatment
5. Schematic of waste treatment
6. Retention time (if applicable)
7. Volume of discharge (MOD, CFS, GPM)
8. Design flow of treatment facility at time of sampling
12.1.3 SOURCE OF EFFLUENT, RECEIVING WATER, AND DILUTION WATER
1. Effluent Samples
a. Sampling point (including latitude and longitude)
b. Sample collection method
c. Collection dates and times
d. Mean daily discharge on sample collection date
e. Lapsed time from sample collection to delivery
f. Sample temperature when received at the laboratory
g. Physical and chemical data
2. Receiving Water Samples
a. Sampling point (including latitude and longitude)
b. Sample collection method
c. Collection dates and times
d. Streamflow (at time of sampling)
e. Lapsed time from sample collection to delivery
f. Sample temperature when received at the laboratory
g. Physical and chemical data
109
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3. Dilution Water Samples
a. Source
b. Collection date(s) and time(s) (where applicable)
c. Pretreatment
d. Physical and chemical characteristics (pH, hardness, salinity, etc.)
12.1.4 TEST CONDITIONS
1. Toxicity test method used (title, number, source)
2. Endpoint(s) of test
3. Deviations from reference method, if any, and reason(s)
4. Date and time test started
5. Date and time test terminated
6. Type and volume of test chambers
7. Volume of solution used per chamber
8. Number of organisms per test chamber
9. Number of replicate test chambers per treatment
10. Feeding frequency, and amount and type of food
11. Acclimation temperature of test organisms (mean and range)
12. Test temperature (mean and range)
12.1.5 TEST ORGANISMS
1. Scientific name
2. Age
3. Life stage
4. Mean length and weight (where applicable)
5. Source
6. Diseases and treatment (where applicable)
12.1.6 QUALITY ASSURANCE
1. Reference toxicant used routinely; source; date received; lot no.
2. Date and time of most recent reference toxicant test; test results and current cusum chart
3. Dilution water used in reference toxicant test
4. Physical and chemical methods used
12.1.7 RESULTS
1. Provide raw toxicity data in tabular form, including daily records of affected organisms in each concentration
(including controls) and replicate, and in graphical form (plots of toxicity data)
2. Provide table of endpoints: LC50, NOAEC, Pass/Fail (as required in the applicable NPDES permit)
3. Indicate statistical methods used to calculate endpoints
4. Provide summary table of physical and chemical data
5. Tabulate QA data
12.1.8 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Relationship between test endpoints and permit limits.
2. Action to be taken.
110
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12.2 TEST REVIEW
12.2.1 Test review is an important part of an overall quality assurance program (Section 4) and is necessary for
ensuring that all test results are reported accurately. Test review should be conducted on each test by both the testing
laboratory and the regulatory authority.
12.2.2 SAMPLING AND HANDLING
12.2.2.1 The collection and handling of samples are reviewed to verify that the sampling and handling procedures
given in Section 8 were followed. Chain-of-custody forms are reviewed to verify that samples were tested within
allowable sample holding times (Subsection 8.5.4). Any deviations from the procedures given in Section 8 should be
documented and described in the data report (Subsection 12.1).
12.2.3 TEST ACCEPTABILITY CRITERIA
12.2.3.1 Test data are reviewed to verify that test acceptability criteria (TAG) requirements for a valid test have been
met. Any test not meeting the minimum test acceptability criteria is considered invalid. All invalid tests must be
repeated with a newly collected sample.
12.2.4 TEST CONDITIONS
12.2.4.1 Test conditions are reviewed and compared to the specifications listed in the summary of test condition tables
provided for each method. Physical and chemical measurements taken during the test (e.g., temperature, pH, and DO)
also are reviewed and compared to specified ranges. Any deviations from specifications should be documented and
described in the data report (Subsection 12.1).
12.2.4.2 The summary of test condition tables presented for each method identify test conditions as required or
recommended. For WET test data submitted under NPDES permits, all required test conditions must be met or the test
is considered invalid and must be repeated with a newly collected sample. Deviations from recommended test
conditions must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine the validity of test results. Deviations from
recommended test conditions may or may not invalidate a test result depending on the degree of the departure and the
objective of the test. The reviewer should consider the degree of the deviation and the potential or observed impact of
the deviation on the test result before rejecting or accepting a test result as valid. For example, if dissolved oxygen is
measured below 4.0 mg/L in one test chamber, the reviewer should consider whether any observed mortality in that test
chamber corresponded with the drop in dissolved oxygen.
12.2.4.3 Whereas slight deviations in test conditions may not invalidate an individual test result, test condition
deviations that continue to occur frequently in a given laboratory may indicate the need for improved quality control in
that laboratory.
12.2.5 STATISTICAL METHODS
12.2.5.1 The statistical methods used for analyzing test data are reviewed to verify that the recommended flowcharts
for statistical analysis were followed. Any deviation from the recommended flowcharts for selection of statistical
methods should be noted in the data report. Statistical methods other than those recommended in the statistical
flowcharts may be appropriate (see Subsection 11.1.4), however, the laboratory must document the use of and provide
the rationale for the use of any alternate statistical method. In all cases (flowchart recommended methods or alternate
methods), reviewers should verify that the necessary assumptions are met for the statistical method used.
Ill
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12.2.6 CONCENTRATION-RESPONSE RELATIONSHIPS
12.2.6.1 The concept of a concentration-response, or more classically, a dose-response relationship is "the most
fundamental and pervasive one in toxicology" (Casarett and Doull, 1975). This concept assumes that there is a causal
relationship between the dose of a toxicant (or concentration for toxicants in solution) and a measured response. A
response may be any measurable biochemical or biological parameter that is correlated with exposure to the toxicant.
The classical concentration-response relationship is depicted as a sigmoidal shaped curve, however, the particular shape
of the concentration-response curve may differ for each coupled toxicant and response pair. In general, more severe
responses (such as acute effects) occur at higher concentrations of the toxicant, and less severe responses (such as
chronic effects) occur at lower concentrations. A single toxicant also may produce multiple responses, each
characterized by a concentration-response relationship. A corollary of the concentration-response concept is that every
toxicant should exhibit a concentration-response relationship, given that the appropriate response is measured and given
that the concentration range evaluated is appropriate. Use of this concept can be helpful in determining whether an
effluent possesses toxicity and in identifying anomalous test results.
12.2.6.2 The concentration-response relationship generated for each multi-concentration test must be reviewed to
ensure that calculated test results are interpreted appropriately. USEPA (2000a) provides guidance on evaluating
concentration-response relationships to assist in determining the validity of WET test results. All WET test results (from
multi-concentration tests) reported under the NPDES program should be reviewed and reported according to USEPA
guidance on the evaluation of concentration-response relationships (USEPA, 2000a). This guidance provides review
steps for 10 different concentration-response patterns that may be encountered in WET test data. Based on the review,
the guidance provides one of three determinations: that calculated effect concentrations are reliable and should be
reported, that calculated effect concentrations are anomalous and should be explained, or that the test was inconclusive
and the test should be repeated with a newly collected sample. It should be noted that the determination of a valid
concentration-response relationship is not always clear cut. Data from some tests may suggest consultation with
professional toxicologists and/or regulatory officials. Tests that exhibit unexpected concentration-response relationships
also may indicate a need for further investigation and possible retesting.
12.2.7 REFERENCE TOXICANT TESTING
12.2.7.1 Test review of a given effluent or receiving water test should include review of the associated reference
toxicant test and current control chart. Reference toxicant testing and control charting is required for documenting the
quality of test organisms (Subsection 4.7) and ongoing laboratory performance (Subsection 4.15). The reviewer should
verify that a quality control reference toxicant test was conducted according to the specified frequency required by the
permitting authority or recommended by the method (e.g., monthly). The test acceptability criteria, test conditions,
concentration-response relationship, and test sensitivity of the reference toxicant test are reviewed to verify that the
reference toxicant test conducted was a valid test. The results of the reference toxicant test are then plotted on a control
chart (see Subsection 4.15) and compared to the current control chart limits (± 2 standard deviations).
12.2.7.2 Reference toxicant tests that fall outside of recommended control chart limits are evaluated to determine the
validity of associated effluent and receiving water tests (see Subsection 4.15). An out of control reference toxicant test
result does not necessarily invalidate associated test results. The reviewer should consider the degree to which the
reference toxicant test result fell outside of control chart limits, the width of the limits, the direction of the deviation
(toward increasing test organism sensitivity or toward decreasing test organism sensitivity), the test conditions of both
the effluent test and the reference toxicant test, and the objective of the test. More frequent and/or concurrent reference
toxicant testing may be advantageous if recent problems (e.g., invalid tests, reference toxicant test results outside of
control chart limits, reduced health of organism cultures, or increased within-test variability) have been identified in
testing.
112
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12.2.8 TEST VARIABILITY
12.2.8.1 The within-test variability of individual tests should be reviewed. Excessive within-test variability may
invalidate a test result and warrant retesting. For evaluating within-test variability, reviewers should consult EPA
guidance on upper and lower percent minimum significant difference (PMSD) bounds (USEPA, 2000b).
12.2.8.2 USEPA guidance on WET variability recommends incorporating upper and lower bounds using the PMSD to
control and minimize within-test method variability and increase test sensitivity (USEPA, 2000b). The minimum
significant difference (MSD) is the smallest difference between the control and another test treatment that can be
determined as statistically significant in a given test, and the PMSD is the MSD represented as a percentage of the
control response. The equation and examples of MSD calculations are shown in Subsection 11.3.7.4.4.
12.2.8.3 To assist in reviewing within-test variability, EPA recommends maintaining control charts of PMSDs
calculated for successive effluent tests (USEPA, 2000b). A control chart of PMSD values characterizes the range of
variability observed within a given laboratory, and allows comparison of individual test PMSDs with the laboratory's
typical range of variability. Control charts of other variability and test performance measures, such as the MSD,
standard deviation or CV of control responses, or average control response, also may be useful for reviewing tests and
minimizing variability.
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Support Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio.
USEPA. 1982. Methods for organic chemical analysis of municipal and industrial wastewater. Environmental
Monitoring and Support Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio. EPA-600/4-82-057.
USEPA. 1984. Development of water quality-based permit limitations for toxic pollutants: national policy. Fed. Reg.
49(48):9016-9019. Friday, March 9, 1984.
USEPA. 1985. Methods for measuring the acute toxicity of effluents to freshwater and marine organisms. 3rd ed.
Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio. EPA
600/4-85/013.
vanDuijn, C., Jr. 1973. Diseases of fishes. 3rd ed., Charles C. Thomas Publ., Springfield, Illinois. 309 pp.
Walters, D.B. and C.W. Jameson. 1984. Health and safety for toxicity testing. ButterworthPubl., Woburn,
Massachusetts.
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Zaroogian, G. E., G. Pesch, and G. Morrison. 1969. Formulation of an artificial sea water media suitable for oyster
larvae development. Amer. Zool. 9:1141.
Zillioux, E.J., H.R. Foulk, J.C. Prager, and J.A. Cardin. 1973. UsingArtemia to assay oil dispersant toxicities. JWPCF
45:2389-2396.
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APPENDICES
A. Distribution, Life Cycle, Taxonomy, and Culture Methods 125
A. 1. Ceriodaphnia dubia-Prepared by Philip A. Lewis and James M. Lazorchak . . 125
A. 2. Daphnia (Daphnia magna and D. pulex)-Prepared by Philip A. Lewis and
James M. Lazorchak 140
A. 3. Mysids (Mysidopsis bahia and Holmesimysis cosfafa)-Prepared by
StephenH. Ward 159
A.4. Brine Shrimp (Artemia sa//«a)-Prepared by Philip A. Lewis and
David A. Bengtson 178
A. 5. Fathead Minnow (Pimephales promelas)-Prepared by Donald J. Klemm,
Quentin H. Pickering, and Mark E. Smith 185
A.6. Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and Brook Trout
(Salvelinusfontinalis)-Prepared by Donald J. Klemm 201
A.7. Sheepshead Minnow (Cyprinodon var/'egato)-Prepared by Donald J. Klemm 209
A.8. Silversides: Inland Silverside (Menidia beryllina),
Atlantic Silverside, (M. menidia, and Tidewater Silverside
(M. peninsulae)-Prepared by Douglas P. Middaugh and Donald J. Klemm . . . 224
B. Supplemental List of Acute Toxicity Test Species-Prepared by Margarete A. Heber 238
C. Dilutor Systems-Prepared by William H. Peltier 240
D. Plans for Mobile Toxicity Test Laboratory-Prepared by William H. Peltier 253
D. 1. Tandem-Axle Trailer 253
D.2. Fifth Wheel Trailer 256
E. Check Lists and Information Sheets-Prepared by William H. Peltier 257
E.I. Toxicity Test Field Equipment List 257
E.2. Information Check List for On-Site Industrial or Municipal Toxicity Test . . . 259
E.3. Daily Event Log 264
E.4. Dilutor Calibration Form 265
E.5. Daily Dilutor Calibration Check 266
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APPENDIX A
DISTRIBUTION, LIFE CYCLE, TAXONOMY, AND CULTURE METHODS
A.l. CERIODAPHNIA DUBIA
1 SYSTEMATICS
1.1 MORPHOLOGY AND TAXONOMY
1.1.1 Ceriodaphnia are closely related and morphologically similar to Daphnia, but are smaller and have a shorter
generation time (USEPA, 1986). They are generally more rotund, lack the prominent rostral projection typical of
Daphnia, and do not develop the dorsal helmets and long posterior spines often observed in Daphnia.
1.1.2 With Ceriodaphnia dubia, the female has a heavy, setulated pecten on the postabdominal claw (Figure 1A),
and the male was long antennules (Figure 1C), in contrast to the closely related C. reticulata, where the female has
heavy, triangular denticles in the pecten of the postabdominal claw (Figure 2A), and the male has very short
antennules (Figure 2C). Some clones having intermediate characters may be hybrids or phenotypic variants of C.
dubia (USEPA, 1986). Detailed descriptions of the males and females of both species and the variant were given
by USEPA (1986).
1.1.3 Although males are very similar to females, they can be recognized by their rapid, erratic swimming habit,
smaller size, denser coloration, extended antennules and claspers, and rostrum morphology.
2 ECOLOGY AND LIFE HISTORY
2.1 DISTRIBUTION
2.1.1 C. dubia, has been reported from littoral areas of lakes, ponds, and marshes throughout most of the world,
but it is difficult to ascertain its true distribution because it has been reported in the literature under several other
names (C. affinis, C. quadrangula, and C. reticulata). It has also been suggested that reports of C. dubia in New
Zealand and parts of Asia may be yet another unnamed species (Berner, personal communication).
2.2 ECOLOGY
2.2.1 Ceriodaphnia ecology and life history are very similar to those of other daphnids. Specific information on
the ecology and life history of Ceriodaphnia dubia is either not available or is widely scattered throughout the
literature. However, it is known to be a pond and lake dwelling species that is usually common among the
vegetation in littoral areas (Fairchild, 1981). In the Lake of Velence, Hungary, C. dubia was most common in
regions where "grey" and "dark brown" waters merged (Pal, 1980). In Par Pond (Savannah River Plant, Aiken, SC)
the Ceriodaphnia were much more abundant in the heated water (effluent from the nuclear reactor) than in the
ambient area (Vigerstad and Tilly, 1977), and in a reservoir in Russia, animals from the heated water were larger
and heavier than those living under normal water temperatures (Kititsyna and Sergeeva, 1976). In Iran they are
common in warmer, montane, oligotrophic lakes (Smagowicz, 1976).
2.2.2 In Lake Kinneret, Israel, Ceriodaphnia reticulata are abundant only between March and June, with a peak in
May when the temperature ranges between 20 and 22°C. When summer temperatures reached 27-28°C, the
Ceriodaphnia were reduced in size and egg production became significantly less, leading to a progressive decline of
the population (Gophen, 1976). In Lake Parvin, France, the period of development was from June to September
(Devaux, 1980).
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B
Figure 1. Ceriodaphnia dubia. A. (1) parthenogenetic female, (2) postabdomen, and (3) claw;
B. ephippial female; C. Male. (FromUSEPA, 1986)
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B
Figure 2. Ceriodaphnia reticulata. A. (1) parthenogenetic female, (2) postabdomen, (3) and claw;
B. ephippial female; C. Male. (From USEPA, 1986)
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2.2.3 Ceriodaphnia typically swim with an erratic, jerking motion for a period of time, and hang motionless in the
water between swimming bouts. This swimming behavior results in a mean speed of 1.5-2.5 mm/s. When
approached by a predator, however, it flees by swimming away quickly along a straight path (Wong, 1981).
2.2.4 During most of the year, populations of Ceriodaphnia consist almost entirely of females; the males appearing
principally in autumn. Production of males appears to be induced primarily by low water temperatures, high
population densities, and/or a decrease in available food. As far as is presently known, C. dubia reproduce only by
cyclic parthenogenesis in which the males contribute to the genetic makeup of the young during the sexual stage of
reproduction.
2.2.5 The females tend to aggregate during sexual reproductive activity, when ephippia are produced (Brandl and
Fernando, 1971). Ephippia are embryos encased in a tough covering, and are resistent to drying. They can be stored
for long periods and shipped through the mail in envelopes, like seeds. When placed in water at the proper
temperature, ephippia hatch in a few days producing a new parthenogenetic population.
2.2.6 Ceriodaphnia have many predators, including fish, the mysidMysis relicta, Chaoborus larvae, and copepods.
As with Daphnia, it also reacts to intense predation with defensive strategies. Ceriodaphnia reticulata (possibly
C.dubia) in a Minnesota lake, reacted to the copepod, Cyclops vernalis, by producing large offspring and growing
to a large size at the expense of early reproduction (Lynch, 1979). They reacted to fish predators by producing
smaller offspring in larger numbers.
2.3 FOOD AND FEEDING
2.3.1 Cladoceraare polyphagous feeders and find their food in the seston. Daphnids, including the Ceriodaphnia,
are classified as fine mesh filter feeders by Geller and Mueller (1981). These fine mesh filter feeders are most
abundant in eutrophic lakes during summer phytoplankton blooms when suspended bacteria are available as food
only for filter-feeding species with fine mesh.
2.3.2 Lynch (1978) examined the gut contents of Ceriodaphnia reticulata (possibly C. dubia) from a Minnesota
pond and found bacteria, detritus and partially digested algae. In this pond, Ceriodaphnia and Daphnia pulex
shared the same resource base and had very similar diets, but the Ceriodaphnia fed more intensively on diatoms.
The Ceriodaphnia were considered to be less sensitive to low food levels than Daphnia, because of their high rate
of population growth during periods of low food levels in late summer.
2.4 LIFE CYCLE
2.4.1 Four distinct periods may be recognized in the life cycle of Ceriodaphnia: (1) egg, (2) juvenile, (3)
adolescent, and (4) adult. The life span of Ceriodaphnia, from the release of the egg into the brood chamber until
the death of the adult, is highly variable depending on the temperature and other environmental conditions.
Generally the life span increases as temperature decreases, due to lowered metabolic activity. For example, the
average life span of Ceriodaphnia dubia is about 30 days at 25°C, and 50 days at 20°C. One female was reported to
have lived 125 days and produced 29 broods at 20°C (Cowgill et al., 1985).
2.4.2 Typically, a clutch of 4 to 10 eggs is released into the brood chamber, but clutches with as many as 20 eggs
are common. The eggs hatch in the brood chamber and the juveniles, which are already similar in form to the
adults, are released in approximately 38 h, when the female molts (casts off her exoskeleton or carapace). The total
number of young produced per female varies with temperature and other environmental conditions. The most young
are produced in the range of 18-25°C (124 young per female in a 28-day life span at 24°C) (113 young per female in
a 77-day life span at 18°C) but production falls off sharply below 18°C (13 young per female in a 24-day life span
at 12°C) (McNaught and Mount, 1985).
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2.4.3 The time required to reach maturity (produce their first offspring) in C.dubia varies from three to five days
and appears to be dependent on body size and environmental conditions. A study of the growth and development of
parthenogenetic eggs by Shuba and Costa (1972) revealed that at 24°C the embryos matured to free-swimming
juveniles in approximately 38 h. The eggs that did not develop fully usually were aborted after 12 hours.
2.4.4 The growth rate of the organism is greatest during its juvenile stages (early instars), and the body size may
double during each of these stages. Each instar stage is terminated by a molt. Growth occurs immediately after
each molt while the new carapace is still elastic.
2.4.5 Following the juvenile stages, the adolescent period is very short, and consists of a single instar. It is during
the adolescent instar that the first clutch of eggs reaches full development in the ovary. Generally, eggs are
deposited in the brood chamber within minutes after molting, and the young which develop are released just before
the next molt.
2.4.6 In general, the duration of instars increases with age, but also depends on environmental conditions. A given
instar usually lasts approximately 24 h under favorable conditions. However, when conditions are unfavorable, it
may last as long as a week. Four events take place in a matter of a few minutes at the end of each adult instar: (1)
release of young from the brood chamber to the outside, (2) molting, (3) increase in size, and (4) release of a new
clutch of eggs into the brood chamber. The number of young per brood is highly variable, depending primarily on
food availability and environmental conditions. C. dubia may produce as many as 25 young in a single brood, but
more commonly the number is six to ten. The number of young released during the adult instars reaches a
maximum at about the fourth instar, after which there is a gradual decrease.
3 CULTURING METHODS
3.1 Ceriodaphnia are available from commercial biological supply houses. Guidance on the source of culture
animals to be used by a permittee for self-monitoring effluent toxicity tests should be obtained from the permitting
authority. Only a small number of organisms (20-30) are needed to start a culture. Before test organisms are taken
from a culture, the culture should be maintained for at least two generations using the same food, water, and
temperature as will be used in the toxicity tests.
3.2 Cultures of test organisms should be started at least three weeks before the brood animals are needed, to ensure
an adequate supply of neonates for the test. Only a few individuals are needed to start a culture because of their
prolific reproduction.
3.3 Starter animals may be obtained from an outside source by shipping in polyethylene bottles. Approximately
20-30 animals and 3 mL of food (see below) are placed in a 1-L bottle filled full with culture water. Animals
received from an outside source should be transferred to new culture media gradually over a period of 1-2 days to
avoid mass mortality.
3.4 It is best to start the cultures with one animal, which is sacrificed after producing young, embedded, and
retained as a permanent microscope slide mount to facilitate identification and permit future reference. The species
identification of the stock culture should be verified by a taxonomic authority. The following procedure is
recommended for making slide mounts of Ceriodaphnia (Beckett and Lewis, 1982):
1. Pipet the animal onto a watch glass.
2. Reduce the water volume by withdrawing excess water with the pipet.
3. Add a few drops of carbonated water (club soda or seltzer water) or 70% ethanol to relax the specimen so
that the post-abdomen is extended. (Optional: with practice, extension of the postabdomen may be
accomplished by putting pressure on the cover slip).
4. Place a small amount (one to three drops) of mounting medium on a glass microscope slide. The
recommended mounting medium is CMCP-9/9AF Medium, prepared by mixing two parts of CMCP-9 with
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one part of CMCP-9AF. For more viscosity and faster drying, CMC-10 stained with acid fuchsin may be
used.
5. Using a forceps or a pipet, transfer the animal to the drop of mounting medium on the microscope slide.
6. Cover with a cover slip and exert minimum pressure to remove any air bubbles trapped under the cover
slip. Slightly more pressure will extend the postabdomen.
7. Allow mounting medium to dry.
8. Make slide permanent by placing CMC-10 around the edges of the coverslip.
9. Identify to species (see Pennak, 1989, and USEPA, 1986).
10. Label with waterproof ink or diamond pencil.
11. Store for permanent record.
3.5 CULTURE MEDIA
3.5.1 Although Ceriodaphnia stock cultures can be successfully maintained in some tap waters, well waters, and
surface waters, use of synthetic water as the culture medium is recommended because (1) it is easily prepared, (2) it
is of known quality, (3) it yields reproducible results, and (4) allows adequate growth and reproduction. Culturing
may be successfully done in hard, moderately hard or soft reconstituted water, depending on the hardness of the
water in which the test will be conducted. The quality of the dilution water is extremely important in Ceriodaphnia
culture. The use of MILLIPORE MILLI-Q® or SUPER-Q®, or equivalent, to prepare reconstituted water is highly
recommended. The use of diluted mineral water (DMW) for culturing and testing is widespread due to the ease of
preparation.
3.5.2 The chemicals used and instructions for preparation of reconstituted water are given in Section 7, Dilution
Water. The compounds are dissolved in distilled or deionized water and the media are vigorously aerated for
several hours before using. The initial pH of the media is between 7.0 and 8.0, but it will rise as much as 0.5 unit
after the test is underway.
3.6 MASS CULTURE
3.6.1 Mass cultures are used only as a "backup" reservoir of organisms. Neonates from mass cultures are not to be
used directly in toxicity tests.
3.6.2 One-liter or 2L glass beakers, crystallization dishes, "battery jars," or aquaria may be used as culture vessels.
Vessels are commonly filled to three-fourths capacity. Cultures are fed daily. Four or more cultures are maintained
in separate vessels and with overlapping ages to serve as back-up in case one culture is lost due to accident or other
unanticipated problems, such as low DO concentrations or poor quality of food or laboratory water.
3.6.3 Mass cultures which will serve as a source of brood organisms for individual culture should be maintained in
good condition by frequent renewal of the medium and brood organisms. Cultures are started by adding 40-50
neonates per liter of medium. The stocked organisms should be transferred to new culture medium at least twice a
week for two weeks. After two weeks, the culture is discarded and re-started with neonates in fresh medium. Using
this schedule, 1-L cultures will produce 500 to 1000 neonate Ceriodaphnia each week.
3.6.6 Reserve cultures also may be maintained in large (80-L) aquaria or other large tanks.
3.7 INDIVIDUAL CULTURE
3.7.1 Individual cultures are used as the immediate source of neonates for toxicity tests.
3.7.2 Individual organisms are cultured in 15 mL of culture medium in 30-mL (1 oz) plastic cups or 30-mL glass
beakers. One neonate is placed in each cup. It is convenient to place the cups in the same type of board used for
toxicity tests.
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3.7.3 Organisms are fed daily and are transferred to fresh medium a minimum of three times a week, typically on
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. On the transfer days, food is added to the new medium immediately before or
after the organisms are transferred.
3.7.4 To provide cultures of overlapping ages, new boards are started weekly, using neonates from adults which
produce at least eight young in their third or fourth brood. These adults can be used as sources of neonates until
14 days of age. A minimum of two boards are maintained concurrently to provide backup supplies of organisms in
case of problems.
3.7.5 Cultures which are properly maintained should produce at least 20 young per adult in three broods (seven
days or less at 25°C). Typically, 60 adult females (one board) will produce more than the minimum number of
neonates (120) required for two tests.
3.7.6 Records should be maintained on the survival of brood organisms and number of offspring at each renewal.
Greater than 20% mortality of adults or less than an average of 20 young per adult on a board at 25°C during a
one-week period would indicate problems, such as poor quality of culture media or food. Organisms on that board
should not be used as a source of test organisms.
3.8 CULTURE MEDIUM
3.8.1 Moderately hard synthetic water prepared using MILLIPORE MILLI-Q® or equivalent deionized water and
reagent grade chemicals or 20% DMW is recommended as a standard culture medium (see Section 7, Dilution
Water).
3.9 CULTURE CONDITIONS
3.9.1 Ceriodaphnia should be cultured at the temperature at which they will be used in the toxicity tests (20°Cor
25°C + 2°C).
3.9.2 Day/night cycles prevailing in most laboratories will provide adequate illumination for normal growth and
reproduction. A 16-h/8-h day/night cycle is recommended.
3.9.3 Clear, double-strength safety glass or 6 mm plastic panels are placed on the culture vessels to exclude dust
and dirt, and reduce evaporation.
3.9.4 The organisms are delicate and should be handled as carefully and as little as possible so that they are not
unnecessarily stressed. They are transferred with a pipet of approximately 2-mm bore, taking care to release the
animals under the surface of the water. Any organism that is injured during handling should be discarded.
3.10 FOOD PREPARATION AND FEEDING
3.10.1 Feeding the proper amount of the right food is extremely important in Ceriodaphnia culturing. The key is
to provide sufficient nutrition to support normal reproduction without adding excess food which may reduce the
toxicity of the test solutions, clog the animal's filtering apparatus, or greatly decrease the DO concentration and
increase mortality. A combination of Yeast, CEROPHYLL®, and Trout chow (YCT) or flake food, along with the
unicellular green alga, Selenastrum capricornutum, will provide suitable nutrition if fed daily.
3.10.2 The YCT and algae are prepared as follows:
3.10.2.1 Digested trout chow (or flake food):
1. Preparation of trout chow requires one week. Use starter or No. 1 pellets prepared according to
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current U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service specifications, or flake food.
2. Add 5.0 g of trout chow pellets or flake food to 1 L of MILLI-Q® water. Mix well in a blender and
pour into a 2-L separately funnel. Digest prior to use by aerating continuously from the bottom of
the vessel for one week at ambient laboratory temperature. Water lost due to evaporation is
replaced during digestion. Because of the offensive odor usually produced during digestion, the
vessel should be placed in a fume hood or other isolated, ventilated area.
3. At the end of digestion period, place in a refrigerator and allow to settle for a minimum of 1 h.
Filter the supernatant through a fine mesh screen (i.e., NITEX® 110 mesh). Combine with equal
volumes of supernatant from CEROPHYLL® and yeast preparations (below). The supernatant
can be used fresh, or frozen until use. Discard the sediment.
3.10.2.2 Yeast:
1. Add 5.0 g of dry yeast, such as FLEISCHMANN'S® to 1 L of MILLI-Q ® water.
2. Stir with a magnetic stirrer, shake vigorously by hand, or mix with a blender at low speed, until
the yeast is well dispersed.
3. Combine the yeast suspension immediately (do not allow to settle) with equal volumes of
supernatant from the trout chow (above) and CEROPHYLL® preparations (below). Discard
excess material.
3.10.2.3 CEROPHYLL® (Dried, Powdered, Cereal Leaves):
1. Place 5.0 g of dried, powdered, cereal leaves in a blender. Dried, powdered, alfalfa leaves
obtained from health food stores have been found to be a satisfactory substitute for cereal leaves.
2. Add 1 L of MILLI-Q® water.
3. Mix in a blender at high speed for 5 min, or stir overnight at medium speed on a magnetic stir
plate.
4. If a blender is used to suspend the material, place in a refrigerator overnight to settle. If a
magnetic stirrer is used, allow to settle for 1 h. Decant the supernatant and combine with equal
volumes of supernatant from trout chow and yeast preparations (above). Discard excess material.
3.10.2.4 Combined YCT Food:
1. Mix equal (approximately 300 mL) volumes of the three foods as described above.
2. Place aliquots of the mixture in small (50-mL to 100-mL) screw-cap plastic bottles and freeze
until needed.
3. Freshly prepared food can be used immediately, or it can be frozen until needed. Thawed food is
stored in the refrigerator between feedings, and is used for a maximum of two weeks.
4. It is advisable to measure the dry weight of solids (dry 24 h at 105°C) in each batch of YCT
before use. The food should contain 1.7 -1.9 g solids/L. Cultures or test solutions should contain
12-13 mg solids/L.
3.10.3 Algal (Selenastrum) Food
3.10.3.1 Algal Culture Medium
1. Prepare (five) stock nutrient solutions using reagent grade chemicals as described in Table 1.
2. Add 1 mL of each stock solution, in the order listed in Table 1, to approximately 900 mL of
MILLI-Q® water. Mix well after the addition of each solution. Dilute to 1 L and mix well. The
final concentration of macronutrients and micronutrients in the culture medium is given in
Table 2.
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TABLE 1. NUTRIENT STOCK SOLUTIONS FOR MAINTAINING ALGAL STOCK CULTURES AND TEST
CONTROL CULTURES
STOCK
SOLUTION
1. MACRONUTRIENTS
A.
B.
C.
D.
2. MICRONUTRIENTS:
COMPOUND
MgCl2«6H2O
CaCl2«2H2O
NaNO3
MgSO4«7H2O
K2HP04
NaHCO3
H3BO3
MnCl2«4H2O
ZnCl2
FeCl3«6H2O
CoCl2«6H2O
Na2MoO4«2H2O
CuCl2«2H2O
Na2EDTA«2H2O
Na2SeO4
AMOUNT DISSOLVED IN
500 ML MILLI-Q® WATER
6.08 g
2.20 g
12.75 g
7.35 g
0.522 g
7.50 g
92.8 mg
208.0 mg
1.64 mga
79.9 mg
0.714 mgb
3.63 mgc
0.006 mgd
150.0 mg
1.196mge
aZnC!2 - Weigh out 164 mg and dilute to 100 mL. Add 1 mL of this
solution to Stock #2.
bCoC!2«6H2O - Weigh out 71.4 mg and dilute to 100 mL. Add 1 mL of
this solution to Stock #2.
cNa2MoO4«2H2O - Weigh out 36.6 mg and dilute to 10 mL. Add 1 mL
of this solution to Stock #2.
dCuC!2»2H2O - Weigh out 60.0 mg and dilute to 1000 mL. Take 1 mL of
this solution and dilute to 10 mL. Take 1 mL of the second dilution and
add to Stock #2.
6Na2SeO4 - Weigh out 119.6 mg and dilute to 100 mL. Add 1 mL of this solution to Stock #2.
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TABLE 2. FINAL CONCENTRATION OF MACRONUTRIENTS AND MICRONUTRIENTS IN THE
CULTURE MEDIUM
MACRONUTRIENT
NaNO3
MgCl2«6H2O
CaCl2«2H2O
MgSO4«7H2O
K2HP04
NaHCO3
MICRONUTRIENT
H3BO3
MnCl2«4H2O
ZnCl2
CoCl2«6H2O
CuCl2«2H2O
Na2MoO4«2H2O
FeCl3«6H2O
Na2EDTA«2H2O
Na2SeO4
CONCENTRATION
(MG/L)
25.5
12.2
4.41
14.7
1.04
15.0
CONCENTRATION
(HG/L)
185
416
3.27
1.43
0.012
7.26
160
300
2.39
ELEMENT
N
Mg
Ca
S
P
Na
K
C
ELEMENT
B
Mn
Zn
Co
Cu
Mo
Fe
-
Se
CONCENTRATION
(MG/L)
4.20
2.90
1.20
1.91
0.186
11.0
0.469
2.14
CONCENTRATION
(HG/L)
32.5
115
1.57
0.354
0.004
2.88
33.1
1.00
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3. Immediately filter the medium through a 0.45 um pore diameter membrane at a vacuum of not
more than 380 mm (15 in.) mercury, or at a pressure of not more than one-half atmosphere (8 psi).
Wash the filter with 500 mL deionized water prior to use.
4. If the filtration is carried out with sterile apparatus, filtered medium can be used immediately, and
no further sterilization steps are required before the inoculation of the medium. The medium can
also be sterilized by autoclaving after it is placed in the culture vessels.
5. Unused sterile medium should not be stored more than one week prior to use, because there may
be substantial loss of water by evaporation.
3.10.3.2 Algal Cultures
3.10.3.2.1 Two types of algal cultures are maintained: (1) stock cultures, and, (2) "food" cultures.
3.10.3.2.2 Establishing and Maintaining Stock Cultures of Algae
1. Upon receipt of the "starter" culture (usually about 10 mL), a stock culture is initiated by
aseptically transferring one milliliter to each of several 250-mL culture flasks containing 100 mL
algal culture medium (prepared as described above). The remainder of the starter culture can be
held in reserve for up to six months in a refrigerator (in the dark) at 4°C.
2. The stock cultures are used as a source of algae to initiate "food" cultures for Ceriodaphnia
toxicity tests. The volume of stock culture maintained at any one time will depend on the amount
of algal food required for the Ceriodaphnia cultures and tests. Stock culture volume may be
rapidly "scaled up" to several liters, if necessary, using 4-L serum bottles or similar vessels, each
containing 3 L of growth medium.
3. Culture temperature is not critical. Stock cultures may be maintained in environmental chambers
with cultures of other organisms if the illumination is adequate (continuous "cool-white"
fluorescent lighting of approximately 86 ± 8.6 uE/m2/s, or 400 ft-c).
4. Cultures are mixed twice daily by hand or stirred continuously.
5. Stock cultures can be held in the refrigerator until used to start "food" cultures, or can be
transferred to new medium weekly. One-to-three milliliters of 7-day old algal stock culture,
containing approximately 1.5 X 106 cells/mL, are transferred to each 100 mL of fresh culture
medium. The inoculum should provide an initial cell density of approximately 10,000-30,000
cells/mL in the new stock cultures. Aseptic techniques should be used in maintaining the stock
algal cultures, and care should be exercised to avoid contamination by other microorganisms.
6. Stock cultures should be examined microscopically weekly, at transfer, for microbial
contamination. Reserve quantities of culture organisms can be maintained for 6-12 months if
stored in the dark at 4°C. It is advisable to prepare new stock cultures from "starter" cultures
obtained from established outside sources of organisms every four to six months.
3.10.3.2.3 Establishing and Maintaining "Food" Cultures of Algae
1. "Food" cultures are started seven days prior to use for Ceriodaphnia cultures and tests.
Approximately 20 mL of 7-day-old algal stock culture (described in the previous paragraph),
containing 1.5 X 106 cells/mL, are added to each liter of fresh algal culture medium (i.e., 3 L of
medium in a 4-L bottle, or 18 L in a 20-L bottle). The inoculum should provide an initial cell
density of approximately 30,000 cells/mL. Aseptic techniques should be used in preparing and
maintaining the cultures, and care should be exercised to avoid contamination by other
microorganisms. However, sterility of food cultures is not as critical as in stock cultures because
the food cultures are terminated in 7-10 days. A one-month supply of algal food can be grown at
one time, and the excess stored in the refrigerator.
2. Food cultures may be maintained at 25°C in environmental chambers with the algal stock cultures
or cultures of other organisms if the illumination is adequate (continuous "cool-white" fluorescent
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lighting of approximately 86 ± 8.6 uE/m2/s, or 400 ft-c).
3. Cultures are mixed continuously on a magnetic stir plate (with a medium size stir bar) or in a
moderately aerated separatory funnel, or are mixed twice daily by hand. If the cultures are placed
on a magnetic stir plate, heat generated by the stirrer might elevate the culture temperature several
degrees. Caution should be exercised to prevent the culture temperature from rising more than
2-3°C.
3.10.3.3 Preparing Algal Concentrate for Use as Ceriodaphnia Food
1. An algal concentrate containing 3.0 to 3.5 X 107 cells/mL is prepared from food cultures by
centrifuging the algae with a plankton or bucket-type centrifuge, or by allowing the cultures to
settle in a refrigerator for approximately two-to-three weeks and siphoning off the supernatant.
2. The cell density (cells/mL) in the concentrate is measured with an electronic particle counter,
microscope and hemocytometer, fluorometer, or spectrophotometer, and used to determine the
concentration required to achieve a final cell count of 3.0 to 3.5 X 107 cells/mL.
3. Assuming a cell density of approximately 1.5 X 106 cells/mL in the algal food cultures at 7 days,
and 100% recovery in the concentration process, a 3-L, 7-10 day culture will provide 4.5 X 109
algal cells. This number of cells would provide approximately 150 mL of algal cell concentrate
(1500 feedings at 0.1 mL/feeding) for use as food. This would be enough algal food for four
Ceriodaphnia tests.
4. Algal concentrate may be stored in the refrigerator for one month.
3.11 FEEDING
3.11.1 Cultures should be fed daily to maintain the organisms in optimum condition so as to provide maximum
reproduction. Stock cultures which are stressed because they are not adequately fed may produce low numbers of
young, large number of males, and ephippial females. Also, their offspring may produce few young when used in
toxicity tests.
1. If YCT is frozen, remove a bottle of food from the freezer 1 h before feeding time, and allow to
thaw.
2. Mass cultures are fed daily at the rate of 7 mL YCT and 7 mL algae concentrate/L culture.
3. Individual cultures are fed at the rate of 0.1 mL YCT and 0.1 mL algae concentrate per 15 mL
culture.
YCT and algal concentrate should be thoroughly mixed by shaking before dispensing.
Return unused YCT food mixture and algae concentrate to the refrigerator. Do not re-freeze
YCT. Discard unused portion after one week.
3.12 FOOD QUALITY
3.12.1 The quality of food prepared with newly acquired supplies of yeast, trout chow, dried cereal leaves, or
algae, should be determined in side-by-side comparisons of Ceriodaphnia survival and reproduction, using the new
food and food of known, acceptable quality, over a seven-day period in control medium.
4 TEST ORGANISMS
4.1 Neonates, or first instar Ceriodaphnia less than 24 hours old, taken from the 3rd or 4th brood, are used in
toxicity tests. To obtain the necessary number of young for an acute toxicity test, it is recommended that the
animals be cultured in individual 30 mL beakers or plastic cups for seven days prior to the beginning of the test.
Neonates are used from broods of at least eight young. Fifty adults in individual cultures will usually supply
enough neonates for one toxicity test.
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4.2 Use a disposable, widemouth pipette to transfer Ceriodaphnia. The diameter of the opening should be
approximately 4 mm. The tip of the pipette should be kept under the surface of the water when the Ceriodaphnia
are released to prevent air from being trapped under the carapace. Liquid containing adult Ceriodaphnia can be
poured from one container to another without risk of injuring the animals.
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SELECTED REFERENCES
Beckett, D.C., and P.A. Lewis. 1982. An efficient procedure for slide mounting of larval chironomids. Trans. Am.
Microsc. Soc. 101(l):96-99.
Brandl, Z., and C.H. Fernando. 1971. Microaggregation of the cladoceran Ceriodaphnia affmis Lilleborg with a
possible reason for microaggregation of zooplankton. Can. J. Zool. 49:775.
Cowgill, U.M., K.I. Keating, and I.T. Takahashi. 1985. Fecundity and longevity of Ceriodaphnia dubia/affmis in
relation to diet at two different temperatures. J. Crust. Biol. 5(3):420-429.
Devaux, J. 1980. Contribution to limnological study of Lake Pavin, France. 2: Relationship between abiotic
parameters, phytoplankton and zooplankton in the 0-20 meter zone. Hydrobiologia 68(1): 17-34.
Fairchild, G.W. 1981. Movement and micro distribution of Sidia crystalline and other littoral micro Crustacea.
Ecology 62(5):1341-1352.
Geller, W., and H. Mueller. 1981. The filtration apparatus of Cladocera filter mesh sizes and their implications on
food selectivity. Oecologia (Berl.) 49(3):316-321.
Gophen, M. 1976. Temperature dependence of food intake, ammonia excretion, and respiration in Ceriodaphnia
reticulata, Lake Kinneret, Israel. Freshwat. Biol. 6(5):451-455.
Kititsyna, L.A., and O.A. Sergeeva. 1976. Effect of temperature increase on the size and weight of some
invertebrate populations in the cooling reservoir of the Kinakhovsk State Regional Electric Power Plant.
Ekologyia 5:99-102.
Lynch, M. 1978. Complex interactions between natural coexploiters - Daphnia and Ceriodaphnia. Ecology
59(3):552-564.
Lynch, M. 1979. Predation, competition, and zooplankton community structure: An experimental study. Limnol.
Oceanogr. 24(2):253-272.
McNaught, D.C., and D.I. Mount. 1985. Appropriate durations and measures for Ceriodaphnia toxicity tests. In:
R.C. Banner and D.J. Hansen (eds.), Aquatic Toxicology and Hazard Assessment: Eighth Symposium. ASTM
STP 891, American Society for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, PA. pp. 375-381.
Norberg, T.J., and D.I. Mount. 1985. Diets for Ceriodaphnia reticulata life-cycle tests. In: R.D. Cardwell, R.
Purdy and R.C. Banner (eds.), Aquatic Toxicology and Hazard Assessment: Seventh Symposium. ASTM STP
854. American Society for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, PA. pp. 42-52.
Pal, G. 1980. Characterization of water quality regions of the Lake of Velence, Hungary with planktonic
crustaceans. Allattani Kozl. 67(l-4):49-58.
Pennak, R.W. 1989. Fresh-water invertebrates of the United States. 3rd ed. Protozoa to Mollusca. John Wiley &
Sons, New York, NY.
Shuba, T., and R.R. Costa. 1972. Development and growth of Ceriodaphnia reticulata embryos. Trans. Am.
Microsc. Soc. 91(3):429-435.
Smagowicz, K. 1976. On the zooplankton of Lake Zeribar, Western Iran. Acta Hydrobiol. 18(1):89-100.
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USEPA. 1986. Taxonomy of Ceriodaphnia (Crustacea: Cladocera) in U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
cultures. D.B. Berner. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Environmental Monitoring and Support
Laboratory, Cincinnati, OH. EPA/600/4-86/032
USEPA. 1989. Culturing of Cerio daphnia dubia. Supplemental report for video training tape. U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C. EPA/505/8-89/002a.
Vigerstad, T.J., and L.J. Tilly. 1977. Hyper-thermal effluent effects on heleo planktonic Cladocera and the
influence of submerged macrophytes. Hydrobiologia 55(l):81-86.
Wong, C.K. 1981. Predatory feeding behavior ofEpischura lacustris (Copepoda: Calanoida) and prey defense.
Can. J. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 38:275-279.
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APPENDIX A
DISTRIBUTION, LIFE CYCLE, TAXONOMY, AND CULTURE METHODS
A.2. DAPHNIA (D. MAGNA AND D. PULEX)
1 SYSTEMATICS
1.1 MORPHOLOGY AND TAXONOMY
1.1.1 The generalized anatomy of a parthenogenetic female is shown in Figure 1. Daphnia pulex is an extremely
variable species consisting of several reproductively isolated clonal groups and is often not distinguishable from
other species (such as D. obtusa) that have large teeth on the middle pecten of the postabdomenal claw (Figure 2C)
(Lynch, 1985; Dodson, 1981). Probably the most distinctive feature of the parthenogenetic female D. pulex is the
long second abdominal process of the abreptor (postabdomen) that extends beyond the base of the anal setae (Figure
2A).
1.1.2 D. pulex is a wide ranging species that shows little variation throughout its range. Two of its most distinctive
characteristics are the deeply sinuate posterior margin of the abreptor (Figures 3 A and 3D) and the ridges on the
head which run parallel to the mid-dorsal line (Figure 3B).
1.1.3 D. pulex is much smaller than D. magna, attaining a length of up to 3.5 mm compared to 5.0 or 6.0 mm for
D. magna. Although the two species can often be separated by size, they can be differentiated with certainty only
by examining the postabdominal claws for size and number of spines using a compound microscope. D. pulex has
5-7 stout teeth on the middle pecten (Figure 2C) while D. magna has a uniform row of 20 or more small teeth
(Figure 3E). Another characteristic for separating the neonates of the two species is the location of the nuchal organ
which is higher up on the posterior margin of the head inD. magna than inD. pulex (Schwartz and Hebert, 1984).
For a more complete taxonomic discussion of the two species see Brooks (1957).
2 DISTRIBUTION
2.1 D. magna has a worldwide distribution in the northern hemisphere. In North America it appears to be absent
from the eastern United States (except for Northern New England) and Alaska (Figure 4). D. pulex occurs over most
of North America except the tropics and high arctic (Figure 5), and probably occurs in Europe and South America
as well. Both species often occur in the same pools but D. pulex usually out-competes D. magna in mixed
populations and takes over as the sole inhabitant by summer's end (Modlin, 1982; Lynch, 1983).
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Figure 1. Generalized anatomy of a female Daphnia, X70; A, antenna; AS, anal
setae; BC, brood chamber; H, heart; INT, intestine; L, legs; OV, ovary;
P, postabdomen; PC, posbdominal claw. (From Pennak, 1989).
—-x
Figure 2. Female Daphnia pulex. A, lateral aspect (note smoothly rounded posterior margin of
postabdomen); B, ephippial female; C, postabdomen showing large spines on the claw. (From
Brooks, 1957)
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B
Figure 3. Female D. Magna. A. lateral aspect; B. dorsal aspect; C. ephippial female; D. postabdomen
showing sinuate posterior margin; E. postabdominal claw. (From Brooks, 1957)
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Figure 4. Map showing the North American distribution of D. magna.
-,/
V
-r-.-:\\^..:.4-^-\
Figure 5. Map showing the North American distribution of D. pulex.
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3 ECOLOGY AND LIFE HISTORY
3.1 GENERAL ECOLOGY
3.1.1 D. magna is principally a lake dweller and is restricted to waters in northern and western North America
exceeding a hardness of 150 mg/L (as CaCO3) (Pennak, 1989). In the Netherlands, D. magna are found in shallow
ponds with muddy bottoms rich in organic matter and with low oxygen demand (3 to 4 mg/L). D. pulex is
principally a pond dweller where the oxygen content is higher, but is also found in lakes. It is generally considered
a clean water species being dominant in nature during periods of low turbidity. However, Scholtz, et al. (1988)
found that high turbidity had little effect on survival and reproduction in laboratory studies.
3.1.2 Daphnia populations are generally sparse in winter and early spring, but as water temperatures reach 6°C to
12°C, they increase in abundance and subsequently may reach population densities as high as 200 to 500
individuals/L (Pennak, 1989). Populations in ponds decline to very low numbers during the summer months. In
autumn there may be a second population pulse, followed by a decline to winter lows.
3.1.3 During most of the year, populations of Daphnia consist almost entirely of females, the males being
abundant only in spring or autumn when up to 56% of the offspring of D. magna may be males (Barker and Hebert,
1986). Males are distinguished from females by their smaller size, larger antennules, modified postabdomen, and
first legs, which are armed with a stout hook used in clasping. Production of males appears to be induced
principally by low temperatures or high densities and subsequent accumulation of excretory products, and/or a
decrease in available food. These conditions may induce the appearance of sexual (resting) eggs (embryos) in cases
called ephippia (Figures 2B and 3C), which are cast off during the next molt. It appears that the shift toward male
and sexual egg production is related to the metabolic rate of the parent. Any factor which tends to lower
metabolism may be responsible. Ruvinsky et al. (1978) suggested that the genome of the animal has two
developmental programs based on identical sets of chromosomes. The female program consistently functions under
a wide range of conditions, whereas the male program is turned on by specific ecological stimuli. The eggs from
which the males and females develop have identical chromosome sets. Sex determination is based on changes in
chromatin structure when the mother receives a specific signal that sexual reproduction is needed for adaptation to
extreme conditions.
3.1.4 D. magna reproduce only by cyclic parthenogenesis in which males contribute to the genetic makeup of the
young during the sexual stage of reproduction, whereas D. pulex may reproduce either by cyclic or obligate
parthenogenesis in which the zygotes develop within the ephippium by ameoitic parthenogenesis with no genetic
contribution from the males. Thus, the ephippial and live-born offspring are genetically identical to their mothers.
Both forms may be present in the same population resulting in cyclic populations exhibiting considerable genetic
variation early in the year and an obligate population with a low range of genotypic values. After 25 generations of
asexual reproduction the variation in the cyclic parthenogenesis group becomes about the same as that in the
obligate group (Lynch, 1984). These populations exhibiting a low range of genotypic values are much more
vulnerable to perturbations such as nutrient introduction or toxic discharges. The clonal makeup of a Daphnia
population is effected by food, oxygen, temperature and predation (Weider, 1985; Brookfield, 1984).
3.1.5 Ephippia are small and lightweight and can be dried and stored for long periods making them easy to
transport. They may be shipped in envelopes like seeds. Upon arrival at the new location the ephippia can be
hatched in a few days when placed in water at the proper temperature (Schwartz and Hebert, 1987).
3.1.6 Daphnia are preyed upon by many predators and have developed behavioral and morphological antipredator
defenses to make themselves more difficult to catch and consume. Dodson (1988) showed that D. pulex responded
to a possible chemical stimuli released by the predator which resulted in the daphnids retreating from the vicinity of
the predators. Certain clones ofD. pulex may develop morphological changes when predators are present but not
when they are absent from the pond. Some of these changes are of such magnitude that they have been described as
separate species. D. minnehaha is a morphological variation ofD. pulex which develops spines in response to the
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stimuli of predators (Krueger and Dodson, 1981). Different genotypes of D. pulex react in different ways to the
predator (Chaoborus) factor and to temperature (Havel, 1985).
3.2 FOOD AND FEEDING
3.2.1. Both D. pulex and D. magna are well adapted to live in algal blooms, which are high in proteins and
carbohydrates, where they feed on algae and bacteria. D. magna prefers bacteria to algae as food (Ganf, 1983;
Hadas et al., 1983) while D. pulex uses bacteria as food only when algal biomass declines (Borsheim and Olsen,
1984). Food type and abundance affect the sensitivity ofDaphnia to pollutants and their reproduction rate. Keating
and Dagbusan (1986) showed that both D. pulex and D. magna fed diatoms were more tolerant of pollutants than
those fed only green algae. Lipid reserves are a good indication of the nutritional condition of the animals (Holm
and Shapiro, 1984; Tessierand Goulden, 1982).
3.3 LIFE HISTORY
3.3.1 Four distinct periods may be recognized in the life history ofDaphnia: (1) egg, (2) juvenile, (3) adolescence,
and (4) adult (Pennak, 1989). The life span ofDaphnia, from the release of the egg into the brood chamber until the
death of the adult, is highly variable depending on the species and environmental conditions (Pennak, 1989).
Generally the life span increases as temperature decreases, due to lowered metabolic activity. The average life span
ofD. magna is about 40 days at 25°C, and about 56 days at 20°C. The average life span ofD. pulex at 20°C is
approximately 50 days. Typically, a clutch of 6 to 10 eggs is released into the brood chamber, but as many as 57
have been reported. The eggs hatch in the brood chamber and the juveniles, which are already similar in form to the
adults, are released in approximately two days when the female molts (casts off her exoskeleton or carapace). The
time required to reach maturity (produce their first offspring) in D. pulex varies from six to 10 days (mean = 7.78
days) and also appears to be dependent on body size. The growth rate of the organism is greatest during its juvenile
stages (early instars), and the body size may double during each of these stages. D. pulex has three to four juvenile
instars, whereas D. magna has three to five instars. Each instar stage is terminated by a molt. Growth occurs
immediately after each molt while the new carapace is still elastic.
3.3.2 Following the juvenile stages, the adolescent period is very short, and consists of a single instar. It is during
the adolescent instar that the first clutch of eggs reaches full development in the ovary. Generally, eggs are
deposited in the brood chamber within minutes after molting, and the young which develop are released just before
the next molt.
3.3.3 D. magna usually has 6-22 adult instars, and D. pulex has 18-25. In general, the duration of instars increases
with age, but also depends on environmental conditions. A given instar generally lasts approximately two days
under favorable conditions, but when conditions are unfavorable, may last as long as a week.
3.3.4 Four events take place in a matter of a few minutes at the end of each adult instar: (1) release of young from
the brood chamber to the outside, (2) molting, (3) increase in size, and (4) release of a new clutch of eggs into the
brood chamber. The number of young per brood is highly variable for Daphnia, depending primarily on food
availability and environmental conditions. D. magna and D. pulex may both produce as many as 30 young during
each adult instar, but more commonly the number is six to 10. The number of young released during the adult
instars ofD. pulex reaches a maximum at the tenth instar, after which there is a gradual decrease (Anderson and
Zupancic, 1937). Scholtz et al. (1988) reported that nearly all of the eggs that are oviposited by D. pulex became
neonates, indicating a highly successful hatching rate. The maximum number of young produced by D. magna
occurs at the fifth adult instar, after which it decreases (Anderson and Jenkins, 1942).
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4 CULTURING METHODS
4.1 SOURCES OF ORGANISMS
4.1.1 Daphnia are available from commercial biological supply houses. Only a small number of organisms (20-30)
are needed to start a culture. D. pulex is preferred over D. magna by some biologists because it is more widely
distributed, is tolerant of a wider range of environmental conditions, and is easier to culture. However, the neonates
are smaller, swim faster and are more difficult to count, and produce more "floaters" thanD. magna and, therefore,
are somewhat more difficult to use in toxicity tests. Guidance on the source and species of Daphnia to be used by a
permittee for effluent toxicity tests should be obtained from the permitting authority.
4.1.2 Cultures of test organisms should be started at least three weeks before the brood animals are needed, to
ensure an adequate supply of neonates for the test.
4.1.3 Starter animals may be obtained from an outside source by shipping in polyethylene bottles. Approximately
20-30 animals and 3 mL of food (see below) are placed in a 1-L bottle filled full with culture water. Animals
received from an outside source should be transferred to new culture media gradually over a period of 1-2 days to
avoid mass mortality.
4.1.4 It is best to start the cultures with one animal, which is sacrificed after producing young, embedded, and
retained as a permanent microscope slide mount to facilitate identification and permit future reference. The species
identification of the stock culture should be verified by a taxonomic authority. The following procedure is
recommended for making slide mounts of Daphnia (Beckett and Lewis, 1982):
1. Pipet the animal onto a watch glass.
2. Reduce the water volume by withdrawing excess water with the pipet.
3. Add a few drops of carbonated water (club soda or seltzer water) or 70% ethanol to relax the specimen
so that the post-abdomen is extended. (Optional: with practice, extension of the postabdomen may be
accomplished by putting pressure on the cover slip).
4. Place a small amount (one to three drops) of mounting medium on a glass microscope slide. The
recommended mounting medium is CMCP-9/9AF Medium, prepared by mixing two parts of CMCP-9
with one part of CMCP-9AF. For more viscosity and faster drying, CMC-10 stained with acid fuchsin
may be used.
5. Using a forceps or a pipet, transfer the animal to the drop of mounting medium on the microscope slide.
6. Cover with a cover slip and exert minimum pressure to remove any air bubbles trapped under the cover
slip. Slightly more pressure will extend the postabdomen.
7. Allow mounting medium to dry.
8. Make slide permanent by placing CMC-10 around the edges of the coverslip.
9. Identify to species (see Pennak, 1989).
10. Label with waterproof ink or diamond pencil.
11. Store for permanent record.
4.2 CULTURE MEDIA
4.2.1 Although Daphnia stock cultures can be successfully maintained in some tap waters, well waters, and surface
waters, use of synthetic water as the culture medium is recommended because (1) it is easily prepared, (2) it is of
known quality, (3) it yields reproducible results, and (4) allows adequate growth and reproduction. Reconstituted
hard water (total hardness of 160 -180 mg/L as CaCO3) is recommended forD. magna culturing, and reconstituted
moderately hard water (total hardness of 80-90 mg/L CaCO3) is recommended for D. pulex culturing. The quality
of the dilution water is important in Daphnia culture. The use of MILLIPORE MILLI-Q® or SUPER-Q®, or
equivalent, to prepare reconstituted water is highly recommended. The use of diluted mineral water (DMW) for
culturing and testing is widespread due to the ease of preparation.
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4.2.2 The chemicals used and instructions for preparation of reconstituted water are given in Section 7, Dilution
Water. The compounds are dissolved in distilled or deionized water and the media are vigorously aerated for
several hours before using. The initial pH of the media is between 7.0 and 8.0, but it will rise as much as 0.5 unit
after the test is underway.
4.3 CULTURE CONDITIONS
4.3.1 Daphnia canbe cultured successfully over a wide range of temperatures, but should be protected from
sudden changes in temperature, which may cause death. The optimum temperature is approximately 20°C, and if
ambient laboratory temperatures remain in the range of 18-26°C, normal growth and reproduction ofDaphnia can
be maintained without special temperature control equipment. D. magna can survive when the DO concentration is
as low as 3 mg/L but D. pulex does best when the DO concentration is above 5 mg/L. Therefore it is recommended
that the DO concentration in the culture be maintained at 5 mg/L or above. Unless the cultures are too crowded or
overfed, aeration is usually not necessary.
4.3.2 Illumination
4.3.2.1 The variations in ambient light intensities (10-20 uE/m2/s, or 50-100 ft-c) and prevailing day/night cycles in
most laboratories do not seem to affect Daphnia growth and reproduction significantly. However, a minimum of 16
h of illumination should be provided each day.
4.3.3 Culture Vessels
4.3.3.1 Culture vessels of clear glass are recommended since they allow easy observation of the Daphnia. A
practical culture vessel is an ordinary 4-L glass beaker, which can be filled with approximately 3 L medium
(reconstituted water). Maintain several (at least five) culture vessels, rather than only one. This will ensure back-up
cultures so that in the event of a population "crash" in one or several chambers, the entire Daphnia population will
not be lost. If a vessel is stocked with 30 adult Daphnia, it will provide approximately 300 young each week.
4.3.3.2 Initially, all culture vessels should be washed well (see Section 5, Facilities and Equipment). After the
culture is established, clean each chamber weekly with distilled or deionized water and wipe with a clean sponge to
rid the vessel of accumulated food and dead Daphnia (see section on culture maintenance below). Once per month,
wash each vessel with detergent during medium replacement. Rinse three times with tap water and then with culture
medium to remove all traces of detergent.
4.3.4 Weekly Culture Media Replacement
4.3.4.1 Careful culture maintenance is essential. The medium in each stock culture vessel should be replaced three
times each week with fresh medium.
This is best accomplished by changing solutions Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, as follows:
1. Place about 300 mL of the old media in a temporary holding vessel.
2. Transfer about 25 or 30 adults from the old culture vessel to the holding vessel using a wide bore
pipette.
3. Discard the remaining Daphnia along with the media.
4. Clean the culture vessel as described above.
5. Fill the newly-cleaned vessel with fresh medium.
6. Gently transfer (by pouring) the contents of the temporary holding vessel (old medium with the
Daphnia) into the vessel containing the new medium making sure that none of the animals stick to
the sides of the vessel.
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7. Feed the animals
4.3.4.2 If the medium is not replaced three times weekly, waste products will accumulate, which could cause a
population crash or the production of males and/or sexual eggs.
4.3.4.3 Daphnia cultures should be thinned whenever the population exceeds 200 individuals per stock vessel to
prevent over-crowding, which may cause a population crash, or the production of males and/or ephippia. A good
time to thin the populations is on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, before feeding. To transfer Daphnia, use a
15-cm disposable, jumbo bulb pipette, or 10-mL "serum" pipette which has had the delivery tip cut off and fire
polished. The diameter of the opening should be approximately 5 mm. A serum pipette, a pipette bulb, such as a
PROPIPETTE®, or (MOPET®) portable, motorized pipettor, will provide the controlled suction needed when
selectively collecting Daphnia.
4.3.4.4 Liquid containing adult D. pulex and D. magna can be poured from one container to another without risk of
air becoming trapped under their carapaces. However, the very young Daphnia are much more susceptible to air
entrapment and for this reason should be transferred from one container to another using a pipette. The tip of the
pipette should be kept under the surface of the liquid when the Daphnia are released.
4.3.4.5 Each culture vessel should be covered with a clear plastic sheet or glass plate to exclude dust and dirt, and
minimize evaporation.
4.4 FOOD PREPARATION AND FEEDING
4.4.1 Feeding the proper amount of the right food is extremely important in Daphnia culturing. The key is to
provide sufficient nutrition to support normal reproduction without adding excess food which may reduce the
toxicity of the test solutions, clog the animal's filtering apparatus, or greatly decrease the DO concentration and
increase mortality. YCT, a combination of Yeast, CEROPHYLL®, and Trout chow (or flake food), along with the
unicellular green alga, Selenastrum capricornutum, will provide suitable nutrition if fed daily.
4.4.2 The YCT and algae are prepared as follows:
4.4.2.1 Digested trout chow (or flake food):
1. The preparation requires one week. Use starter or No. 1 pellets prepared according to current U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service specifications, or flake food.
2. Add 5.0 g of trout chow pellets or flake food to 1 L of MILLI-Q® water. Mix well in a blender and
pour into a 2-L separatory funnel. Digest prior to use by aerating continuously from the bottom of
the vessel for one week at ambient laboratory temperature. Water lost due to evaporation is replaced
during digestion. Because of the offensive odor usually produced during digestion, the vessel
should be placed in a fume hood or other isolated, ventilated area.
3. At the end of digestion period, place in a refrigerator and allow to settle for a minimum of 1 h.
Filter the supernatant through a fine mesh screen (i.e., NITEX® 110 mesh). Combine with equal
volumes of supernatant from CEROPHYLL® and yeast preparations (below). The supernatant can
be used fresh, or frozen until use. Discard the sediment.
4.4.2.2 Yeast:
1. Add 5.0 g of dry yeast, such as FLEISCHMANN'S® to 1 L of MILLI-Q® water.
2. Stir with a magnetic stirrer, shake vigorously by hand, or mix with a blender at low speed, until the
yeast is well dispersed.
3. Combine the yeast suspension immediately (do not allow to settle) with equal volumes of
supernatant from the trout chow (above) and CEROPHYLL® preparations (below). Discard excess
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material.
4.4.2.3 CEROPHYLL® (Dried, Powdered, Cereal Leaves):
1. Place 5.0 g of dried, powdered, cereal leaves in ablender. Dried, powdered, alfalfa leaves obtained
from health food stores have been found to be a satisfactory substitute for cereal leaves.
2. Add 1 L of MILLI-Q® water.
3. Mix in a blender at high speed for 5 min, or stir overnight at medium speed on a magnetic stir plate.
4. If a blender is used to suspend the material, place in a refrigerator overnight to settle. If a magnetic
stirrer is used, allow to settle for 1 h. Decant the supernatant and combine with equal volumes of
supernatant from trout chow and yeast preparations (above). Discard excess material.
4.4.2.4 Combined YCT Food:
1. Mix equal (approximately 300 mL) volumes of the three foods as described above.
2. Place aliquots of the mixture in small (50-mL to 100-mL) screw-cap plastic bottles and freeze until
needed.
3. Freshly prepared food can be used immediately, or it can be frozen until needed. Thawed food is
stored in the refrigerator between feedings, and is used for a maximum of one week.
4. It is advisable to measure the dry weight of solids in each batch of YCT before use. The food
should contain 1.7 - 1.9 g solids/L. Cultures or test solutions should contain 12-13 mg solids/L.
4.4.3 Algal (Selenastrum) Food
4.4.3.1 Algal Culture Medium
1. Prepare (five) stock nutrient solutions using reagent grade chemicals as described in Table 1.
2. Add 1 mL of each stock solution, in the order listed in Table 1, to approximately 900 mL of
MILLI-Q® water. Mix well after the addition of each solution. Dilute to 1 L and mix well. The
final concentration of macronutrients and micronutrients in the culture medium is given in Table 2.
3. Immediately filter the medium through a 0.45um pore diameter membrane at a vacuum of not more
than 380 mm (15 in.) mercury, or at a pressure of not more than one-half atmosphere (8 psi). Wash
the filter with 500 mL deionized water prior to use.
4. If the filtration is carried out with sterile apparatus, filtered medium can be used immediately, and no
further sterilization steps are required before the inoculation of the medium. The medium can also
be sterilized by autoclaving after it is placed in the culture vessels.
5. Unused sterile medium should not be stored more than one week prior to use, because there may be
substantial loss of water by evaporation.
4.4.3.2 Algal Cultures
4.4.3.2.1 Two types of algal cultures are maintained: (1) stock cultures, and, (2) "food" cultures.
4.4.3.2.2 Establishing and Maintaining Stock Cultures of Algae
1. Upon receipt of the "starter" culture (usually about 10 mL), a stock culture is initiated by aseptically
transferring one milliliter to each of several 250-mL culture flasks containing 100 mL algal culture
medium (prepared as described above). The remainder of the starter culture can be held in reserve
for up to six months in a refrigerator (in the dark) at 4°C.
2. The stock cultures are used as a source of algae to initiate "food" cultures for Daphnia toxicity tests.
The volume of stock culture maintained at any one time will depend on the amount of algal food
required for the Daphnia cultures and tests. Stock culture volume may be rapidly "scaled up" to
149
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several liters, if necessary, using 4-L serum bottles or similar vessels, each containing 3 L of growth
medium.
3. Culture temperature is not critical. Stock cultures may be maintained in environmental chambers
with cultures of other organisms if the illumination is adequate (continuous "cool-white" fluorescent
lighting of approximately 86 ± 8.6 uE/m2/s, or 400 ft-c).
4. Cultures are mixed twice daily by hand or stirred continuously.
5. Stock cultures can be held in the refrigerator until used to start "food" cultures, or can be
transferred to new medium weekly. One-to-three milliliters of 7-day old algal stock culture,
containing approximately 1.5 X 106 cells/mL, are transferred to each 100 mL of fresh culture
medium. The inoculum should provide an initial cell density of approximately 1,000-30,000
cells/mL in the new stock cultures. Aseptic techniques should be used in maintaining the stock algal
cultures, and care should be exercised to avoid contamination by other microorganisms.
6. Stock cultures should be examined microscopically weekly, at transfer, for microbial contamination.
Reserve quantities of culture organisms can be maintained for 6-12 months if stored in the dark at
4°C. It is advisable to prepare new stock cultures from "starter" cultures obtained from established
outside sources of organisms every four to six months.
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TABLE 1. NUTRIENT STOCK SOLUTIONS FOR MAINTAINING ALGAL STOCK CULTURES AND
TEST CONTROL CULTURES
STOCK
SOLUTION
1. MACRONUTRIENTS
A.
B.
C.
D.
2. MICRONUTRIENTS:
COMPOUND
MgCl2«6H2O
CaCl2«2H2O
NaNO3
MgSO4«7H2O
K2HP04
NaHCO3
H3BO3
MnCl2«4H2O
ZnCl2
FeCl3«6H2O
CoCl2«6H2O
Na2MoO4«2H2O
CuCl2«2H2O
Na2EDTA«2H2O
Na2SeO4
AMOUNT DISSOLVED IN
500 ML MILLI-Q® WATER
6.08 g
2.20 g
12.75 g
7.35 g
0.522 g
7.50 g
92.8 mg
208.0 mg
1.64 mga
79.9 mg
0.714 mgb
3.63 mgc
0.006 mgd
150.0 mg
1.196mge
aZnC!2 - Weigh out 164 mg and dilute to 100 mL. Add 1 mL of this solution to Stock #2.
bCoC!2«6H2O - Weigh out 71.4 mg and dilute to 100 mL. Add 1 mL of this solution to Stock #2.
cNa2MoO4»2H2O - Weigh out 36.6 mg and dilute to 10 mL. Add 1 mL of this solution to Stock #2.
dCuC!2»2H2O - Weigh out 60.0 mg and dilute to 1000 mL. Take 1 mL of this solution and dilute to 10 mL. Take 1 mL
of the second dilution and add to Stock #2.
6Na2SeO4 - Weigh out 119.6 mg and dilute to 100 mL. Add 1 mL of this solution to Stock #2.
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TABLE 2. FINAL CONCENTRATION OF MACRONUTRIENTS AND MICRONUTRIENTS IN THE
CULTURE MEDIUM
MACRO
NUTRIENT
NaNO3
MgCl2«6H2O
CaCl2«2H2O
MgSO4«7H2O
K2HP04
NaHCO3
MICRO
NUTRIENT
H3BO3
MnCl2«4H2O
ZnCl2
CoCl2«6H2O
CuCl2«2H2O
Na2MoO4«2H2O
FeCl3«6H2O
Na2EDTA«2H2O
Na2SeO4
CONCENTRATION
(MG/L)
25.5
12.2
4.41
14.7
1.04
15.0
CONCENTRATION
(HG/L)
185
416
3.27
1.43
0.012
7.26
160
300
2.39
ELEMENT CONCENTRATION
(MG/L)
N
Mg
Ca
S
P
Na
K
C
ELEMENT
B
Mn
Zn
Co
Cu
Mo
Fe
-
Se
4.20
2.90
1.20
1.91
0.186
11.0
0.469
2.14
CONCENTRATION
(HG/L)
32.5
115
1.57
0.354
0.004
2.88
33.1
1.00
152
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4.4.3.2.3 Establishing and Maintaining "Food" Cultures of Algae
1. "Food" cultures are started seven days prior to use for Daphnia cultures and tests. Approximately
20 mL of 7-day-old algal stock culture (described in the previous paragraph), containing 1.5 X 106
cells/mL, are added to each liter of fresh algal culture medium (i.e., 3 L of medium in a 4-L bottle, or
18 L in a 20-L bottle). The inoculum should provide an initial cell density of approximately 30,000
cells/mL. Aseptic techniques should be used in preparing and maintaining the cultures, and care
should be exercised to avoid contamination by other microorganisms. However, sterility of food
cultures is not as critical as in stock cultures because the food cultures are terminated in 7-10 days.
A one-month supply of algal food can be grown at one time, and the excess stored in the
refrigerator.
2. Food cultures may be maintained at 25°C in environmental chambers with the algal stock cultures or
cultures of other organisms if the illumination is adequate (continuous "cool-white" fluorescent
lighting of approximately 86 ± 8.6 uE/m2/s, or 400 ft-c).
3. Cultures are mixed continuously on a magnetic stir plate (with a medium size stir bar) or in a
moderately aerated separatory funnel, or are mixed twice daily by hand. If the cultures are placed on
a magnetic stir plate, heat generated by the stirrer might elevate the culture temperature several
degrees. Caution should be exercised to prevent the culture temperature from rising more than
2-3°C.
4.4.3.3 Preparing Algal Concentrate for Use as Daphnia Food
1. An algal concentrate containing 3.0 to 3.5 X 107 cells/mL is prepared from food cultures by
centrifuging the algae with a plankton or bucket-type centrifuge, or by allowing the cultures to settle
in a refrigerator for approximately two-to-three weeks and siphoning off the supernatant.
2. The cell density (cells/mL) in the concentrate is measured with an electronic particle counter,
microscope and hemocytometer, fluorometer, or spectrophotometer, and used to determine the
concentration required to achieve a final cell count of 3.0 to 3.5 X 107/mL.
3. Assuming a cell density of approximately 1.5 X 106 cells/mL in the algal food cultures at 7 days, and
100% recovery in the concentration process, a 3-L, 7-10 day culture will provide 4.5 X 109 algal
cells. This number of cells would provide approximately 150 mL of algal cell concentrate.
4. Algal concentrate may be stored in the refrigerator for one month.
4.5 FEEDING
4.5.1 Feeding rate and frequency are important in maintaining the organisms in optimal condition so that they
achieve maximum reproduction. Stock cultures which are stressed because they are not adequately fed may produce
low numbers of young, large numbers of males, and ephippial females. When the young taken from these
inadequately fed Daphnia cultures are used in toxicity tests, they may show higher than acceptable mortality in
controls and greater than normal sensitivity to toxicants. Steps to follow when feeding the YCT and algal diet are as
follows:
1. If YCT is frozen, remove a bottle of the food from the freezer at least 1 h before feeding time, and
allow to thaw.
2. Mass cultures are fed Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the rate of 4.5 mL YCT and 2 mL of
algae concentrate per 3-L culture.
3. On Tuesday and Thursday the culture water is stirred to re-suspend the settled algae and another 2
mL of algal concentrate is added.
4. The YCT and algal concentrate is thoroughly mixed by shaking before dispensing.
5. Return unused YCT food mixture and algal concentrate to the refrigerator. Do not re-freeze the
YCT. Discard unused portion of YCT after one week.
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4.5.2 The quality of food prepared with newly acquired supplies of yeast, trout chow, and dried cereal leaves, or
algae, should be determined in side-by-side comparisons ofDaphnia survival and reproduction tests, using the new
food and food of known, acceptable quality, over a seven-day period in control medium.
154
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APPENDIX A
DISTRIBUTION, LIFE CYCLE, TAXONOMY, AND CULTURE METHODS
A.3. MYSIDS (MYSIDOPSIS BAHIA AND HOLMESIMYSIS COST AT A)
1 DISTRIBUTION
1.1 Mysids (Figure 1) are small shrimp-like crustaceans found in both the marine and freshwater environments.
The mysid(s) that currently are of primary interest in the NPDES program are the estuarine species, Mysidopsis
bahia (now identified as Americamysis bahia, Price et al, 1994) and the marine species, Holmesimysis costata.
It occurs primarily at salinities above 15%0; Stuck et al. (1979a) and Price (1982) found greatest abundances at
salinities near 30%o. Three sympatric species of Mysidopsis, M. almyra, M. bahia, andM. bigelowi, have been
cultured and used in toxicity testing. The distribution of Mysidopsis species has been reported by Stuck et al.
(1979b), Price (1982), and Heard et al. (1987).
1.2 M. bahia occurs primarily at salinities above 15%0; Stuck et al. (1979a) and Price (1982) found greatest
abundances at salinities near 30%o. Three sympatric species of Mysidopsis, M. almyra, M. bahia, andM. bigelowi,
have been cultured and used in toxicity testing. The distribution of Mysidopsis species has been reported by Stuck
et al. (1979b), Price (1982), and Heard et al. (1987).
1.3 H. costata (Holmes 1900; previously referred to as Acanthomysis sculpta) is a west coast species that lives in
the surface canopy of the giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera where it feeds on zooplankters, kelp, epiphytes, and
detritus. There are few references to the ecology of this mysid species (Holmquist, 1979; Clutter, 1967, 1969;
Green, 1970; Turpen et al., 1994). H. costata is numerically abundant in kelp forest habitats and is considered to
be an important food source for kelp forest fish (Clark 1971, Mauchline 1980). H. costata eggs develop for about
20 days in their marsupium (abdominal pouch) before the young are released as juveniles; broods are released at
night during molting. Females release their first brood at 55 to 70 days post-release (at 12°C), and may have
multiple broods throughout their approximately 120-day life.
1.4 Other marine mysids that have been used in toxicity testing and held or cultured in the lab include Metamysid-
opsis elongata, Neomysis americana, Neomysis awatschensis, Neomysis intermedia, and recently for the Pacific
coast, Holmesimysis sculpta and Neomysis mercedis. A freshwater species, Mysis relicta, presently not used in
toxicity testing, but found in the same habitat as Daphnia pulex, might be considered in the future for toxicity
testing.
2. MYSIDOPSIS BAHIA
2.1 LIFE CYCLE
2.1.1 In laboratory culture, Mysidopsis bahia reach sexual maturity in 12 to 20 days, depending on water
temperature and diet (Nimmo et al., 1977). Normally, the female will have eggs in the ovary at approximately 12
days of age. The lamellae of the marsupium pouch have formed or are in the process of forming when the female
is approximately 4 mm in length (Ward, 1993). Unlike Daphnia, the eggs will not develop unless fertilized.
Mating takes place at night and lasts only a few minutes (Mauchline, 1980).
2.1.2 Brood pouches are normally fully formed at approximately 15 days (approximately 5 mm in body length),
and young are released in 17 to 20 days (Ward, 1993). The number of eggs deposited in the brood and the number
of young produced per brood are a direct function of body length as well as environmental conditions. Mature
females have produced as many as 25 Stage I larvae (egg-shaped embryo) per brood (8-9 mm in body length) in
natural and artificial seawater (FORTY FATHOMS*) but average 11 ± 6 Stage III larvae (final stage before larvae
159
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are released), with increasing numbers correlated with increasing body length (Ward, 1993). A new brood is
produced every 4 to 7 days.
2.1.3 At time of emergence, juveniles are immobile, making them susceptible to predationby adult mysids. The
juveniles are planktonic for the first 24-48 hours and then settle to the bottom, orient to the current, and actively
pursue food organisms such asArtemia. Carr et al. (1980) reported that the stage in the life cycle of M almyra
most sensitive to drilling mud was the juvenile molt, which occurs between 24 and 48 hours after release from the
brood pouch. Ward (1989) found a relationship between CaCO3 level and growth and reproduction and that
M. bahia were more sensitive to cadmium during molting (24-72 h post release) in high or low levels of CaCO3.
Work done by Lee and Buikema (1979) for Daphnia pulex also showed increased sensitivity during molting.
antennule
antenna
antennal scale
j dorsal process
statocyst
8* thoracic limb pleopods
abdominal segments
uropod
Figure 1. Lateral and dorsal view of a my sid with morphological features identified (From Stuck et al.
1979a).
160
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Figure 2. Morphological features most useful in identifyingMysidopsis bahia. a. male;b. female; c. thoracic
Ieg2;d. telson;e. righturopod, dorsal; f. male, dorsal (redrawnfromMolenock, 1969; Heardetal.,
1987). Note gonad in area where marsupium is located on female and length of male pleopods as
compared to female. Also note the 3 spines on the endopod of the uropod (e).
161
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Q
^
^J
^
y
S ^
<
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2.2 MORPHOLOGY AND TAXONOMY
2.2.1 Since Mysidopsis bahia occur with two other species of Mysidopsis, an understanding of the taxonomy of
M. almyra, M. bahia, and M. bigelowi is important for culturing and testing practices. The taxonomic key of
Heard et al. (1987) is suggested (see Table 1 for morphological guide to Mysidopsis).
2.2.2 Adults of M. bahia range in length from 4.4 mm to 9.4 mm (Molenock, 1969), measured from the anterior
margin of the carapace to the end of uropods. The mature females are normally larger than the males and the
pleopods of the female are smaller than those of the male (Ward, 1993) (Figure 2). Mysidopsis bahia can be
positively identified as male or female when they are 4 mm in body length (Ward, 1993). Living organisms are
usually transparent, but may be tinted yellow, brown or black. Mysidopsis bigelowi can be readily distinguished
fromM. almyra andM. bahia by the morphology of the second thoracic leg. Mysidopsis bigelowi has a greatly
enlarged endopod of the thoracic limb 2 ("first leg") and the limb has a distinctive row of 6 to 12 spiniform setae
on the inner margin of the sixth segment (Heard et al., 1987). Mysidopsis bahia can also be distinguished from
other species of Mysidopsis by the number of apical spines on the telson (4-5 pairs) and the number of spines on
the inner uropods distal to the statocyst (normally 2-3) (Figure 2).
2.2.3 Heard et al. (1987) state that the most reliable character for separating adult M. almyra and M. bahia is the
number of spines on the inner uropods (M. almyra will always have a single spine). Further, Price (1982) found
that for all stages of development for both species, the shape of the anterior margin of the carapace (rostral plate)
could be used to distinguish M. almyra (broadly rounded) fromM. bahia (more produced). Figure 2 illustrates the
morphological features most useful in identifying M. bahia (redrawn Molenock, 1969; Heard et al., 1987).
2.3 CULTURE METHODS
2.3.1 SOURCE OF ORGANISMS
2.3.1.1 Starter cultures of mysids can be obtained from commercial sources, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico
region for M. almyra andM. bahia.
2.3.1.2 Mysids of different species can also be collected by plankton tows or dip nets (approximately 1.0 mm
mesh size) in estuarine systems. Heard et al. (1987) have identified specimens of M. bahia along the eastern coast,
however, it has been principally identified as a subtropical species found in the Gulf of Mexico and along the east
coast of Florida. Since many species of mysids may be present at a given collection site, the identification of the
organisms selected for culture should be verified by an experienced taxonomist. The permittee should consult the
permitting authority for guidance on the source of test organisms (indigenous or laboratory reared) before use.
2.4 CULTURING SYSTEM
2.4.1 Stock cultures can be maintained in continuous-flow or closed recirculating systems. In laboratory culture
of M. bahia, recirculating systems are probably the most common practice. During the past ten years, a number of
closed recirculating systems have been described. Since no single recirculating technique is the best in all respects,
the system adopted will depend on the facilities and equipment available and the objectives of the culturing
activities. Two other species of mysid, M. almyra andM bigelowi, have also been successfully reared in the
system described in this section (Ward, 1991). Further, there now exist a number of review papers (Venables,
1987 and Lussier et al., 1988) that describe in detail techniques developed by others that will be very helpful in
culturing Mysidopsis.
2.4.2 Closed recirculating systems are unique because the re-used seawater they contain develops an unusual set
of characteristics caused primarily by metabolic waste produced by the mysids. The accumulation of waste
products and suspended particles in the water column is prevented by passing the seawater through a biological
filtration system, in which ammonia and nitrite are oxidized by nitrifying bacteria.
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2.5 CULTURE TANKS
2.5.1 Stock cultures of mysids are maintained in a closed recirculating system. The system should consist of four
200-L glass aquaria. However, smaller tanks, such as 80-L glass aquaria, can be used. When setting up a system,
it is important to consider surface to volume ratio since this will determine how many mysids can be held in each
aquarium. If smaller tanks must be used, the 20-gallon "high" form is recommended. Figure 3 (Ward, 1984;
1991) illustrates the main components of the biological filtration system. The flow rate through the filter is
controlled by the water valve and is maintained between 4-5 L/min. This flow will be sufficient to establish a
moderate current (from the filter return line) in the aquarium to allow the mysids (which are positively rheotactic)
to align themselves with the current formed.
2.5.2 The filtration system consists of commercially-available under-gravel filter plates and external power filter.
Each aquarium has two filter plates, forming a false bottom on each side of the tank, on which 2 cm of crushed
coral are placed. The external power filter (Eheim, model 2017) canister is layered as shown in Figure 3 with a
thin layer of filter fiber between each layer of carbon and crushed oyster shells. There has been some modification
of the original filtration system (Ward, 1984), with crushed coral instead of oyster shells used on the filter bed,
because crushed coral does not dissolve in seawater as readily as crushed oyster shells. If the system described
above cannot be used, an acceptable alternative is an airlift pumping arrangement (Spotte, 1979). Crushed coral
and oyster shells are commercially available and should be washed with deionized water and autoclaved before
use.
2.6 CULTURE MEDIA
2.6.1 A clean source of filtered natural seawater (0.45 um pore diameter) should be used to culture Mysidopsis
bahia, however, artificial seasalts (FORTY FATHOMS®) have also been successfully used (Ward, 1993). A
salinity range between 20 and 30%o can be used (25%o is suggested) to culture M. bahia. Leger and Sorgeloos
(1982) reported success in culturingM. bahia in a formula following Dietrich and Kalle (Kalle, 1971), and still
report continued use of this formula (Leger et al., 1987b). Other commercial brands have also been used
(Reitsema and Neff, 1980; Nimmo and Iley, 1982; Nimmo et al., 1988) with varying degrees of success. The
culture methods presented in Ward (1984; 1991) have been tried with a number of commercial brands of artificial
seawater listed in Bidwell and Spotte (1985). Commercial brands of seasalts can be extremely variable in the
amount of NaHCO3 they provide, which, if not controlled, can affect growth and reproduction (Ward; 1989, 1991).
In a comparative study, Ward (1993) found normal larval development within the marsupium using both natural
seawater and FORTY FATHOMS® (i.e., Stage I - embryo; Stage II - eyeless larva; Stage III - eyed larva which is
the final stage before release) and stressed the importance of proper preparation of the seasalts and monitoring of
conditions in the tank.
2.6.2 The culture media should be aged to allow the build-up of nitrifying bacteria in the filter substrate. To
expedite the aging process, 15 mL of a concentrated suspension ofArtemia should be added daily. If using natural
or artificial seawater, the carbonate alkalinity level should be maintained between 90 and 120 mg/L. It is also
important to establish an algal community, Spirulina subsalsa, in the filter bed (Ward, 1984) and a healthy surface
dwelling diatom community, Nitzchia sp., on the walls (Ward, 1991) in conjunction with the transfer of part of the
biological filter from a healthy tank, when possible. After seven days, the suitability of the medium is checked by
adding 20 adult mysids. If the organisms survive for 96 hours, the culture should be suitable for stocking.
2.6.3 If brine solutions are used, 100%o salinity must not be exceeded. This corresponds to a carbonate alkalinity
value of approximately 50 mg/L, which will allow relatively normal physiological mechanisms associated with
CaCO3 to occur during certain phases of the life cycle forM. bahia (Ward, 1989).
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Filter return line
Power filter feed line
Power filter
Water valve
\
Filter bed
Charcoal
Filter plates
Oyster shells
Figure 3. Closed recirculating system showing the two phases of the biological filtration system which consists
of the filter bed and external power filter (from Ward, 1984; Ward, 1991).
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2.7 ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
2.7.1 Temperature must be maintained within a range of 24°C to 26°C. Twelve to sixteen hours illumination
should be provided daily at 50 to 100 ft-c. The daily light cycle can be provided by combining overhead room
lights, cool-white fluorescent bulbs (approx. 50 ft-c, 12L:12D), with individual Grow-lux fluorescent bulbs placed
horizontally over each tank (approx. 65 ft-c, 10L: 14D). This procedure will avoid acute illumination changes by
allowing the room lights to turn on one hour before and one hour after the aquaria lights. A timing device, such as
an electronic microprocessor-based timer (ChronTrol®, model CD, or equivalent) can be used to control the light
cycle. These procedures are fully outlined in Ward (1984; 1991).
2.7.2 Good aeration (> 60% saturation by vigorous aeration with an air stone), a 10-20 percent exchange of
seawater per week, and carbonate in the filtration system are essential in helping to control pH drops caused by
oxidation of NH4-N and NO2-N by bacteria.
2.7.3 The single most important environmental factor when culturing Mysidopsis bahia or other organisms in
recirculators is the conversion of ammonia to nitrite, and nitrite to nitrate by nitrifying bacteria. Spotte (1979) has
suggested upper limits of 0.1 mg total NH4-N/L, 0.1 mg NO2-N/L and 20 mg NO3-N/L for good laboratory
operation of recirculating systems. For the recirculating system and techniques described here for mysids, the
levels of ammonia, nitrite and nitrate never exceeded 0.05 mg of total ammonia-N/L (NH3(aq)and NH4+), 0.08 mg
NOj-N/L and 18 mg NO3-N/L (Ward, 1991). The toxicity of ammonia is based primarily on unionized ammonia
(NH3) and the proportion of NH3 species to NH4+ species is dependent on pH, ionic strength and temperature. It is
strongly recommended that the concentrations of total ammonia, nitrite and nitrate do not exceed those reported
here. The ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels can be checked by using color comparison test kits such as those
made by LaMotte Chemical or equivalent methods.
2.7.4 Bacterial oxidation of excreted ammonia by two groups of autotrophic nitrifying bacteria (Nitrosomonas
and Nitrobacter), results in an increase of hydrogen ions, which causes a drop in pH and subsequent loss of
buffering capacity. Typically, the culturist responds to the change in pH by adding Na2CO3 or NaHCO3.
However, such efforts to buffer against a drop in pH will result in an increase in alkalinity and the uncontrolled use
of carbonates can affect reproduction, especially at higher alkalinity values (Ward; 1989, 1991). Therefore, when
using carbonates to buffer against pH changes, alkalinity values should not exceed 120 mg/L, which is easily
measured by using a titrator kit such as that available from LaMotte Chemical or equivalent methods.
2.7.5 Figure 4 (Ward, 1991) depicts juvenile production per aquarium, no buffer added, over a period of 24
weeks. A regression line was calculated for these data and the slope and correlation coefficient were analyzed by
Student's t test. The data showed that even when the pH dropped as low of 7.5, there was a significant increase (P
< 0.001) in juvenile production. However, the pH should be maintained above 7.8 by the controlled use of
NaHCO3 and frequent water exchanges.
2.8 FEEDING
2.8.1 Frequent feeding with live food is necessary to prevent cannibalism of the young by the adults. McKenny
(1987) suggests feeding densities of 2-3 Artemia per mL of seawater and Lussier et al. (1988) suggest a feeding
rate of 150 Artemia nauplii per mysid daily.
2.8.2 In the M. bahia-Artemia predator-prey relationship, it is also important to provide sufficient quantities of
nutritionally viable free-swimming stage-I nauplii (Ward, 1987); final hatching from the membranous-sac (pre-
nauplii) into stage-I nauplii does not always occur. Artemia cysts that have been incubated for 24 h should be
periodically examined with a stereozoom microscope to enumerate free-swimming stage-I nauplii and prenauplii
(membranous-sac stage).
166
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1200T
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Figure 4. Juvenile production per aquarium over time (from Ward, 1991).
167
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2.8.3 It has also been found that heavy metals can affect the hatchability ofArtemia (Rafiee et al., 1986; Liu and
Chen, 1987), therefore, when using natural seawater the level of metals should always be checked.
2.8.4 Ward (1987; 1991) has tried different brands ofArtemia from different geographic origins and lot numbers;
many achieved stage I nauplii and still caused variability in production of mysids which suggests that they were
nutritionally lacking. Leger et al. (1985; 1987a) have drawn attention to poor larval survival of M. bahia and low
levels of certain polyunsaturated fatty acids found in the Artemia fed. The enhancement ofArtemia has also been
studied and there are numerous techniques that have been successful (Leger et al., 1986).
2.8.5 Ward (1987; 1991) has found that it is important to control the flow of seawater in recirculating systems
(keep below 5 L/min) so fhatArtemia does not become limiting to the mysid. Newly hatched Artemia should be fed
to mysids at least twice a day. To supply Artemia to the mysid population on the weekend and prevent cannibalism
of newly released mysids, an automatic feeder such as described by Schimmel and Hansen (1975) or Ward (1984;
1991) could be used. Ward (1991) designed a system to hatch Artemia when personnel were not available to set
up Artemia for the following morning and afternoon feeding, such as Monday. Cysts were placed in two 4-L
Erlenmeyer flasks (dry), an airstone was placed in each flask, and two vessels overhead were filled with 3500 mL
of 30%o seawater each. The previously described timer (ChronTrol®, Model CD) was used to open the normally
closed solenoids, allowing the seawater to gravity feed and hydrate the cysts.
2.8.6 It is possible that a surface dwelling diatom community acts as a secondary food that supplements deficient
brands ofArtemia, especially for newly released juveniles. Ward (1991) has observed that a strong fertilizing
action is caused by the excretory products of the mysid population. As the concentration of nitrate increases
(nitrification) to about 5 mg/L (in approximately 7-10 weeks in an aquarium), a bloom of surface dwelling diatoms,
principally Nitzschia, but including Amphora and Cocconeis, occurs in natural or artificial seawater (Ward, 1993).
It is interesting to note that, at the same time, there is a dramatic increase in the number of juveniles observed in the
aquaria (Figure 4). The diatoms form layers on the walls of the aquarium and swarms of newly released juveniles
have been found among them, possibly feeding upon them.
2.8.7 Nitzschia has been identified as a food source for the marine mud snail, Ilyanassa obsoleta (Collier, 1981),
and the sea urchin, Lytechinuspictus (Hinegardner and Tuzzi, 1981). The diatom, Skeletonema, has also been
used as a supplemental food for M. bahia (Venables, 1987). De Lisle and Roberts (1986) reported on the use of
rotifers, Branchionus plicatilis, as a superior food for juvenile mysids. Rotifers are active swimmers, ranging in
size from 100-175 um as compared to 420-520 um for Artemia, and would provide a good alternative food source
if their fatty acid profile is adequate.
2.9 CULTURE MAINTENANCE
2.9.1 To avoid an excessive accumulation of algal growth on the internal surfaces of the aquaria, the walls and
internal components should be scraped periodically and the shell substrate (coral or oyster) turned over weekly.
Also, the filter plates must be completely covered so that the biological filter functions properly. After a culture
tank has been in operation for approximately 2-3 months, detritus builds up on the bottom, which is removed with
a fish net after first removing the mysids. The rate of water flow through the tanks should be maintained between
4-5 L/min, and 10-20% of the seawater in each aquarium should be exchanged weekly.
2.9.2 Some Guitarists have noted problems with hydrozoan pests in their cultures and there are procedures for
their eradication, if necessary (Lawlerand Shepard, 1978; Huttonetal., 1986).
2.10 PRODUCTION LEVEL
2.10.1 At least four aquaria should be maintained to insure a sufficient number of organisms on a continuing
basis. If each 200-L aquarium is initially stocked with between 200 and 500 adults (do not exceed 500 adults),
they will provide sufficient numbers of test organisms (Figure 4) each month. If the cultures are correctly
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maintained, at least 20 percent of the adult population should consist of gravid females (have a visible oostegite
brood pouch with young). It is also advantageous to cull older mysids in the population every 4-6 weeks and to
move mysids among the four aquaria to diversify the gene pool.
2.11 TEST ORGANISMS
2.11.1 Juvenile Mysidopsis bahia, one to five days old, are used in the acute toxicity test and the survival, growth
and fecundity test (USEPA, 1994). To obtain the necessary number for a test, there are a number of techniques
available. A mysid generator such as the one described by Reistsema and Neff (1980) has been successfully used.
Another method to obtain juveniles is to take approximately 200 adult females (bearing embryos in their brood
pouches) from the stock culture and place them in a large (10 cm X 15 cm) standard fish transfer net (2.0 to 3.0
mm openings) that is partially submerged in an 8-L aquarium containing 4 L of clean culture medium. As the
juveniles are released from the brood pouches, they drop through the fish net into the aquarium. The adults and
juveniles in the aquarium are fed twice daily 24-hour post hydratedArtemia. The adults are allowed to remain in
the net for 48 h, and are then returned to the stock tanks. The juveniles that are produced in the small tank may be
used in the toxicity tests over a five-day period. Another method for obtaining juveniles (Ward 1987; 1989) is
simply to remove juveniles from the stock culture with a fine mesh net, place them in 2-L PYREX* crystalline
dishes with media, positioned on a light table that has an attached viewing plate (2 mm squares), and remove
juveniles less than 2 mm in length (approximately 24 h old).
3. HOLMESIMYSIS COSTATA
3.1 MORPHOLOGY AND TAXONOMY
3.1.1 Laboratories unfamiliar with the test organism should collect preliminary samples to verify species
identification. Refer to Holmquist (1979) or send samples of mysids and any similar co-occurring organisms to a
qualified taxonomist. Request certification of species identification from any organism supplier. Records of
verification should be maintained along with a few preserved specimens. A review by Holmquist (1979)
considered previous references \oAcanthomysis sculpta in California to be synonymous withffolmesimysis
costata and this is considered definitive at this time.
3.2 SOURCE OF BROOD STOCK AND TRANSPORT
3.2.1 Broodstock of H. costata are collected by sweeping a small-mesh (0.5-1 mm) hand net through the water
just under the surface canopy blades of giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera. Although this method collects mysids of
all sizes, attention should be paid to the number of gravid females collected because these are used to produce the
juvenile mysids used in toxicity testing. Gravid females are identified by their large, extended marsupia filled with
young. Mysids should be collected from waters remote from sources of pollution to minimize the possibility of
physiological or genetic adaptation to toxicants.
3.2.2 Mysids can be transported for a short time (< 3 h) in tightly covered 20 L plastic buckets. The buckets
should be filled to the top with seawater from the collection site, and should be gentry aerated or oxygenated to
maintain dissolved oxygen above 60% saturation. Transport temperatures should remain within 3°C of the
temperature at the collection site.
3.2.3 For longer transport times of up to 36 h, mysids can be shipped in sealed plastic bags filled with seawater.
The following transport procedure has been used successfully:
1) fill the plastic bag with one L of dilution water seawater,
2) saturate the seawater with oxygen by bubbling pure oxygen for at least 10 minutes,
3) place 25-30 adult mysids, or up to 100 juvenile mysids in each bag,
4) for adults add about 20 Artemia nauplii per mysid, for 100 juveniles add a pinch (10 to 20 mg) of
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ground Tetramin® flake food and 200 newly -hatched Artemia nauplii,
5) seal the bag securely, eliminating any airspace, and
6) place it within a second sealed bag in an ice chest.
Do not overfeed mysids in transport, as this may deplete dissolved oxygen, causing stress or mortality in transported
mysids. A well-insulated ice chest should be cooled to approximately 15°C by adding one 1-L blue ice block for
every five 1-L bags of mysids (organisms will tolerate the temperature range of 12 to 16°C). Wrap the ice in
newspaper and a plastic bag to insulate it from the mysid bags. Pack the bags tightly to avoid shifting within the
cooler.
3.3 HOLDING AND CULTURING
3.3.1 After collection, the mysids should be transported directly to the laboratory and placed in seawater tanks or
aquaria equipped with flowing seawater or adequate aeration and filtration. Initial flow rates should be adjusted so
that any temperature change occurs gradually (0.5°C per h). Broodstock will be collected and maintained at two
temperatures as follows: 1) maintain the water temperature of 15 ± 1°C for mysids collected south of Pt.
Conception, CA and 2) maintain the water temperatures of 13 ± 1°C for mysids collected north of Pt. Conception,
CA. Mysids can be cultured in tanks ranging from 4 to 1000 L. Tanks should be equipped with gentle aeration and
blades of Macrocystis to provide habitat. Static culture tanks can be used if there is constant aeration, temperature
control, and frequent water changes (one half the water volume changed at least twice a week). Maintain culture
density below 20 animals per L by culling out adult males or juveniles.
3.4 FEEDING
3.4.1 Adult mysids should be fed 100 Artemia nauplii per mysid per day. Juveniles should be fed 5 to 10 newly
released Artemia nauplii per juvenile per day and a pinch (10 to 20 mg) of ground Tetramin® flake food per 100
juveniles per day. Static chambers should be carefully monitored and rations adjusted to prevent overfeeding and
fouling of culture water.
3.5 TEST ORGANISMS
3.5.1 Juvenile Holmesimysis costata three to four days old, are used in the acute toxicity test and the survival and
growth test (Hunt et al., 1997; USEPA, 1995). To obtain the necessary number for a test, there are a number of
techniques available for the acute toxicity test and the survival and growth test (USEPA, 1995). Approximately 150
gravid female mysids will typically produce approximately 400 juveniles. Gravid females can be identified by their
large, extended marsupia filled with (visible) eyed juveniles. Marsupia appear distended and gray when females are
ready to release young, due to presence of the juveniles. Gravid females are easily isolated from other mysids using
the following technique: 1) use a small dip net to capture about 100 mysids from the culture tank, 2) transfer the
mysids to a screen-bottomed plastic tube (150 um-mesh, 25-cm diameter) partly immersed in a water bath or bucket,
3) lift the screen-tube out of the water to immobilize mysids on the damp screen, 4) gently draw the gravid females
off the screen with a suction bulb and fire-polished glass tube (5-mm I.D.), and 5) collect gravid females in a
separate screen tube. Re-immerse the screen continuously during the isolation process; mysids should not be
exposed to air for more than a few seconds at a time.
3.5.2 Four to five days before a toxicity test begins, transfer gravid females into a removable, 2-mm-mesh screened
cradle suspended within an aerated 80-L aquarium. Before transfer, make sure there are no juveniles in with the
adult females. Extraneous juveniles are excluded to avoid inadvertently mixing them with the soon-to-be released
juveniles used in testing. Provide the gravid females with newly hatched Artemia nauplii (approximately 200 per
mysid) to help stimulate juvenile release. Artemia can be provided continuously throughout the night from an
aerated reservoir holding approximately 75,000 Artemia. Direct the flow from the feeder into the screened
compartment with the females, and add a few blades of Macrocystis for habitat. The females are placed within the
screened compartment so that as the juveniles are released, they can swim through the mesh into the bottom of the
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aquarium. Outflows on flow-through aquaria should be screened (150-um-mesh) to retain juveniles and allow some
Artemia to escape.
3.5.3 Juveniles are generally released at night, so it is important to turn off all lights at night to promote release.
In the morning, the screened compartment containing the females should be removed and placed in a separate
aquarium. Juveniles should be slowly siphoned through a wide-diameter hose into a 150-um-mesh screen-bottom
tube (25 cm diam.) immersed in a bucket filled with clean seawater. Once the release aquarium is emptied, it should
be washed with hot fresh water to eliminate stray juveniles that might mix with the next cohort.
3.5.4 After collection, the number of juveniles should be estimated visually or by counting subsamples with a small
beaker. If there are not enough juveniles, the juveniles from previous or subsequent releases can be combined so
that the test is initiated with three and/or four-day old juveniles. Mysids 2-days old and younger have higher
mortality rates, while mysids older than four days may vary in their toxicant sensitivity or survival rate (Hunt et al.,
1989; Marline/al., 1989).
3.5.5 Test juveniles should be transferred to additional screen-tubes (or to 4-L static beakers if flowing seawater is
unavailable). The screen-tubes are suspended in a 15-L bucket so that dilution water seawater (0.5 L/min) can flow
into the tube, through the screen, and overflow from the bucket. Check water flow rates (< 1 L/min) to make sure
that juveniles or Artemia nauplii are not forced down onto the screen. The height of the bucket determines the level
of water in the screen tube. About 200 to 300 juveniles can be held in each screen-tube (200 juveniles per static 4-L
beaker). Juveniles should be fed 40 newly hatched Artemia nauplii per mysid per day and a pinch (10 to 20 mg) of
ground Tetramin® flake food per 100 juveniles per day. A blade of Macrocystis (well rinsed in seawater) should be
added to each chamber. Chambers should be gently aerated and temperature controlled at 15 ± 1°C (or 13 ± 1°C if
collected north of Pt. Conception). Half of the seawater in static chambers should be changed at least once between
isolation and test initiation.
3.5.6 The day juveniles are isolated is designated day 0 (the morning after their nighttime release). The toxicity test
should begin on day three or four. For example, if juveniles are isolated on Friday, the toxicity test would begin on
the following Monday or Tuesday. Pool all of the test juveniles into a 1-L beaker. Using a 10-mL wide-bore pipet
or fire-polished glass tube (approximately 2-3 mm I.D), place one or two juveniles into as many plastic cups (one
for each test chamber). These cups should contain enough clean dilution seawater to maintain water quality and
temperature during the transfer process (approximately 50 mL per cup). When each of the cups contains one or two
juveniles, repeat the process, adding mysids until each cup contains 10 organisms. Carefully pour or pipet off
excess water in the cups, leaving less than 5 mL with the test mysids. This 5 mL volume can be estimated visually
after initial measurements. Carefully pour or pipet the juveniles into the test chambers immediately after reducing
the water volume. Gently rocking the water back and forth before pouring may help prevent juveniles from clinging
to the walls of the randomization cups. Juveniles can become trapped in drops; have a squirt bottle ready to gently
rinse down any trapped mysids. If more than 5 mL of water is added to the test solution with the juveniles, report
the amount on the data sheet. Be sure that all water used in culture, transfer, and test solutions is within 1°C of the
test temperature. Because of the small volumes involved in the transfer process, temperature control is best
accomplished in a constant-temperature room.
3.5.7 Immobile mysids that do not respond to a stimulus are considered dead. The stimulus should be two or three
gentle prods with a disposable pipet. Mysids that exhibit any response clearly visible to the naked eye are
considered living. The most commonly observed movement in moribund mysids is a quick contraction of the
abdomen. This or any other obvious movement qualifies a mysid as alive.
171
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APPENDIX A
DISTRIBUTION, LIFE CYCLE, TAXONOMY, AND CULTURE METHODS
A.4. BRINE SHRIMP (ARTEMIA SALINA)
1 SYSTEMATICS
1.1 MORPHOLOGY AND TAXONOMY
1.1.1 The taxonomic status ofArtemia has long been controversial because there is considerable morphological
variability over parts of its range. The present consensus is that there is a single cosmopolitan species, Artemia
salina, which has numerous intergrading physiological and morphological varieties (Pennak, 1989). Brine shrimp
belong to the subclass Branchiopoda which is characterized by many pairs of flattened appendages on the thorax
(Figure 1), in contrast to other members of the Crustacea that have no more than six pairs. Probably the most
distinctive feature of Artemia salina is the compressed, triangular, and blade-shaped distal segment of the second
antenna of the male (Figure 2). The mature adult is 8-10 mm long with a stalked lateral eye, sensorial antennulae,a
linear digestive tract and 11 pairs of thoracopods. In the male the antennae are transformed into muscular claspers
used to secure the female during copulation.
2. DISTRIBUTION
2.1 Artemia are found nearly worldwide in saline lakes and pools. In North America, they have been reported
throughout the western United States, in Nebraska and Connecticut and in Saskatchewan, Canada. They are
probably more widely distributed than indicated because of limited effort in collecting from many areas of the
country. They are absent from many suitable habitats, probably because of their limited dispersal methods.
3 ECOLOGY AND LIFE HISTORY
3.1 GENERAL ECOLOGY
3.1.1 The ecological conditions under which brine shrimp live are highly variable. The salinity can exceed 300%o,
where most other life cannot survive. Favored by the absence of predators and food competitors in such places,
Artemia develop very dense populations. Although not a marine species, they sometimes occur in bays and lagoons
where brines are formed by evaporation of seawater (salt pans). They are more commonly found in highly saline
lakes, such as the Great Salt Lake, where the shoreline may become ringed with brown layers of accumulated brine
shrimp cysts. Brine shrimp are also common in evaporation basins used for the commercial production of salt.
3.1.2 The reproductive habits of different populations vary considerably. In parts of Europe parthenogenesis is the
rule, males being rare or absent, but in North America most Artemia populations seem to be diploid with males
common.
3.1.3 The principal mechanism ofArtemia dispersion is transportation of the cysts by wind or waterfowl and by
deliberate or accidental human inoculation.
3.1.4 Growth of brine shrimp is influenced by many factors and the tolerance of these factors is strain dependent.
Optimum temperature for most strains ranges between 25 and 35 °C but strains have been reported thriving at 40°C.
Most geographical strains do not survive temperatures below 6°C except as cysts. These cysts are tolerant of
temperatures from far below 0°C to near the boiling point of water. Although^rte/w/'a can survive and reproduce
under a wide range of salinity, they are seldom found in nature in salinities below 45%o or above 200%o. The pH
tolerance ofArtemia varies from neutral to highly alkaline but the cysts will hatch best at a pH of 8 or higher.
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3.1.5 Many predators including many zooplankton that populate natural salt waters, many salt water fish, several
insect groups (odonates, hemipterans and beetles), and birds feed on brine shrimp in situations where they can
tolerate the conditions.
3.2 FOOD AND FEEDING
3.2.1 Brine shrimp are typically filter-feeders that consume organic detritus, microscopic algae and bacteria.
Blooms of microscopic algae are favorite habitats ofArtemia, and large populations develop in such areas where
they feed on the algae and heterotrophic bacteria that are produced by these blooms. Brine shrimp populations have
done well in cultures when fed algae, rice bran (Sorgeloos et al., 1979), soybean meal or whey powder (Bossuyt and
Sorgeloos, 1979). The nauplii do not need food for four days after hatching.
3.3 LIFE HISTORY
3.3.1 Most strains ofArtemia produce cysts that float (cysts from the Mono Lake, California strain sink). These
cysts remain in diapause as long as they are kept dry or under anaerobic conditions. Upon hydration, the embryo in
the cyst becomes activated. After several hours the outer membrane bursts and the embryo emerges still encased in
the hatching membrane. Soon the hatching membrane is ruptured and the free-swimming nauplius is born. The
first instar is brownish-orange colored and has three pairs of appendages (Figure 3). The larva grows through about
15 molts and becomes differentiated into male or female after the tenth molt. Copulation is initiated when the male
grasps the female with its modified antennae (Figure 4). The fertilized eggs develop either into free-swimming
nauplii, or they are surrounded by a thick shell and deposited as cysts which are in diapause.
4 METHODS FOR HATCHING ARTEMIA CYSTS
4.1 SOURCES OF CYSTS
4.1.1 Brine shrimp cysts are available from many commercial sources, representing several geographical strains.
The cysts from any source can vary from batch to batch in terms of nutritional quality for the test organisms.
Therefore, it is recommended that each new batch purchased should be analyzed chemically, and that a side-by-side
feeding test be performed on their nutritional suitability by comparing the response of the test organisms with the
new cysts and cysts of known quality (ASTM, 1993). A list of sources of cysts is provided at the end of this
chapter.
4.2 STORAGE OF CYSTS
4.2.1 Sealed cans ofArtemia cysts can be stored for years at room temperature, but once opened, should be used
up within two months. After each use, the can should be tightly covered with a plastic lid and stored in the
refrigerator. If the entire contents of a can will not be used up in two months, it is recommended that the portion
that is expected to be unused be placed in a tightly closed container and frozen until needed.
4.3 HATCHING OF CYSTS
4.3.1 A 2-L separatory funnel makes a convenient brine shrimp hatching vessel, but nearly any transparent or
translucent (preferably colorless) conical shaped container that will hold water may be used. A satisfactory
apparatus can be prepared by removing the bottom of a 2 L plastic soft drink bottle and inserting a rubber stopper
with a flexible tube and pinch cock. The hatching chambers must be clean and free from toxic material. All
detergents should be completely removed by rinsing well with deionized water.
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4.3.2 Salinity of the water used for hatching brine shrimp cysts should be between 25 and 35%o. Natural sea water
or water made up from artificial sea salts may be used. The hatching medium can be prepared by placing 1800 mL
of deionized water in the hatching chamber and adding 50-70 g non-iodized salt. After the salt is added, lower a 1
mL pipette or glass tube fitted to an air supply into the vessel, so that the tip rests on the bottom, and bubble air
vigorously through it to dissolve the salt.
4.3.3 Add the desired quantity of cysts to the vessel. Approximately 15 mL of cysts in a 2-L hatching vessel will
provide enough brine shrimp nauplii to feed three large stock cultures of mysids in 76-L aquaria, or 1000-1500
newly hatched fish in four to six 8-L tanks.
4.3.4 Continue the aeration to keep the cysts and newly hatched nauplii from settling to the bottom where the DO
would quickly be depleted and the newly hatched animals would die.
4.3.5 The area in which the cysts are hatched should be provided with approximately 20 ^E/m2/s (100 ft-c) of
illumination.
4.3.6 The cysts will hatch in about 24 h at a temperature of 25 °C. Hatching time varies with incubation
temperature and the geographic strain ofArtemia used.
4.4 HARVESTING THE NAUPLII
4.4.1 When the brine shrimp nauplii first emerge from the cyst, they are enclosed in a membranous sac (Figure 3).
To be taken as food by the test organisms, the pre-nauplii must emerge from the sac and swim about (Stage I or first
instar nauplius).
4.4.2 The first instar (Stage I) nauplii do not feed. Their value as food for the test organisms decreases from birth
until they begin feeding. Because they do not feed in the hatching vessels, it is important to harvest and use the
nauplii soon after hatching. The nauplii can be easily harvested in the following manner:
1. After approximately 24 h at 25 ° C, remove the pipet supplying air and allow the nauplii to settle
to the bottom of the hatching chamber. The empty egg shells will float to the top and the newly
hatched nauplii and unhatched eggs will settle to the bottom. A light trained on the bottom of the
separatory funnel will hasten the settling process.
2. After approximately 5 min, using the stopcock, drain off the nauplii into a 250 mL beaker.
3. After another 5 min, again drain the nauplii into the beaker.
4. The nauplii are further concentrated by pouring the suspension into a small cylinder which has
one end closed with #20 plankton netting or they may be washed through a 150 um net or screen.
5. The concentrate is resuspended in 50 mL of appropriate culture water, mixed well, and dispensed
with a pipette. (Mysids require approximately 100-150 nauplii/mysid/day).
6. Discard the remaining contents of the hatching vessel and wash the vessel with hot soap and
water.
7. Prepare fresh salt water for each new hatch.
4.4.3 To have a fresh supply ofArtemia nauplii daily, at least two hatching vessels should be used, so that the
newly-hatched can be harvested daily.
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4.5 FEEDING ASSAY
4.5.1 Before using brine shrimp nauplii from a new batch of cysts for routine feeding of cultures and test
organisms, they should be tested for their ability to support life, growth, and reproduction of the test animals. Two
treatments with four replicates each are required for this test. In Treatment (A), the test organisms are fed the
nauplii from the new batch ofArtemia cysts, and in Treatment (B), the test organisms are fed nauplii of known,
good quality, such as from the reference Artemia cysts or from a batch ofArtemia cysts that have been successfully
used in culturing and testing.
4.5.2 If there is no significant difference in the survival, growth, and/or reproduction of the organisms in the two
treatments at the end of a 7-day period, it is assumed that the new batch ofArtemia cysts is satisfactory. If the
survival, growth, and/or reproduction in treatment A is significantly less than the response in treatment B over a 7-
day test period it is assumed that the new batch of brine shrimp cysts are unsuitable for use as a food source for the
organisms tested.
4.5.3 Test chambers and all test conditions during the feeding assay should be similar to those planned for use in
the subsequent toxicity tests.
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SELECTED REFERENCES
ASTM. 1993. Standard practice for using brine shrimp nauplii as food for test animals in aquatic toxicology.
Standard E1203-87, Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol. 11.04, American Society for Testing and
Materials, Philadelphia, PA.
Beck, A.D. and Bengtson, D.A. 1982. International study onArtemia XXII: Nutrition in aquatic toxicology - Diet
quality of geographical strains of the brine shrimp, Artemia. In: J.G. Pearson, R.B. Foster, and W.E. Bishop
(eds.), Aquatic Toxicology and Hazard Assessment: Fifth Conference. ASTM STP 766, American Society for
Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, PA. pp. 161-169.
Beck, A.D., Bengtson, D.A., and Howell, W.H. 1980. International study on Artemia. V. Nutritional value of five
geographical strains of Artemia: Effects of survival and growth of larval Atlantic silversides, Menidia menidia.
In: G. Persoone, P. Sorgeloos, D.A. Roels, and E. Jaspers, eds. The brine shrimp, Artemia. Vol. 3. Ecology,
culturing, use in aquaculture. Universa Press, Wetteren, Belgium, pp. 249-259.
Bengtson, D.A.S., Beck, A.D., Lussier, S.M., Migneault, D., and Olney, C.B. 1984. International study on
Artemia. XXXI. Nutritional effects intoxicity tests: Use of different Artemia geographical strains. In:
G. Persoone, E. Jaspers, and C. Claus, (eds.). Ecotoxicological testing for the marine environment, Vol. 2.
State Univ. Ghent and Inst. Mar. Sci. Res., Bredene, Belgium, pp. 399-416.
Bossuyt, E. and Sorgeloos, P. 1979. Technological aspects of the batch hatching of Artemia in high densities. In:
G. Persoone, P. Sorgeloos, O. Roels and E. Jaspers (eds.), The brine shrimp Artemia. Vol. 3. Ecology,
culturing, use in aquaculture. Universa Press, Wetteren, Belgium, pp. 133-152.
Browne, R.A. 1982. The cost of reproduction in brine shrimp. Ecology 63(l):43-47.
Johns, D.M., Berry, W.J., and Walton, W. 1981. International study onArtemia. XVI. Survival, growth and
reproductive potential of the mysid, Mysidopsis bahia Molenock fed various geographical strains of the brine
shrimp, Artemia. J. Exp. Mar. Biol. Ecol. 53:209-219.
Kuenen, D.J. and Baas-Becking, L.G.M. 1938. Historical notes on Artemia salina (L.). Zool. Med. 20:222-230.
Leger, P., Bengtson, D.A., Simson, K.L., and Sorgeloos, P. 1986. The use and nutritional value of Artemia as a
food source. Oceanogr. Mar. Biol. Ann. Rev. 24:521-623.
Lenz, P.H. 1980. Ecology of an alkali-adapted variety of Artemia from Mono Lake, California, U.S.A. In:
G. Persoone, P. Sorgeloos, O. Roels, and E. Jaspers (eds.), The brine shrimp Artemia. Vol. 3. Ecology,
culturing, use in aquaculture. Universa Press, Wetteren, Belgium, pp. 79-96.
Nikonenko, Y.M. 1986. Adaptation of Artemia salina to toxicants. Hydrobiol. J. 22(5): 94-98.
Pennak, R.W. 1989. Fresh-water invertebrates of the United States. Protozoa to mollusca. John Wiley and Sons,
New York, New York. pp. 358-359.
Persoone, G., Sorgeloos, P., Roels, O., and Jaspers, E., (eds.). 1980a. The brine shrimp Artemia. Vol. 1.
Morphology, genetics, radiobiology, toxicology. Universa Press, Wetteren, Belgium. 318 pp.
Persoone, G., Sorgeloos, P., Roels, O., and Jaspers, E., (eds.). 1980b. The brine shrimp Artemia. Vol. 2.
Physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology. Universa Press, Wetteren, Belgium. 636 pp.
Persoone, G., Sorgeloos, P., Roels, O., and Jaspers, E., (eds.). 1980c. The brine shrimp Artemia. Vol. 3. Ecology,
culturing, use in aquaculture. Universa Press, Wetteren, Belgium. 428 pp.
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Sorgeloos, P. 1980. Life history of the brine shrimp Artemia. In: G. Persoone, P. Sorgeloos, D.A. Roels, and E.
Jaspers (eds.), The brine shrimp, Artemia. Vol. 1. Morphology, genetics, radiobiology, toxicology. Universa
Press, Wetteren, Belgium, pp. ixx-xxii.
Sorgeloos, P., Baesa-Mesa, M, Bossuyt, E., Bruggeman, E., Dobbeler, J., Versichele, D., Lavina, E., and
Bernardine, A. 1979. Culture of Artemia on rice bran: The conversion of waste-products into highly nutritive
animal protein. Aquaculture 21:393-396.
Usher, R.R. and Bengtson, D.A. 1981. Survival and growth of sheepshead minnow larvae and juveniles on diet of
Artemia nauplii. Prog. Fish-Cult. 43:102-105.
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APPENDIX A
DISTRIBUTION, LIFE CYCLE, TAXONOMY, AND CULTURE METHODS
A.5 FATHEAD MINNOW (PIMEPHALES PROMELAS)
I. MORPHOLOGICAL AND ANATOMICAL CHARACTERISTICS
1.1 Fathead minnows vary greatly in many characteristics throughout their wide geographic range. The
morphology and characters for identification are taken from Clay (1962), Hubbs and Lagler (1964), Eddy and
Hodson (1961), Scott and Grossman (1973), and Trautman (1981). Adults (Figure 1) are small fish, typically 43
mm to 102 mm, and averaging about 50 mm, in total length. The standard lengths are usually less than four and
one-half times the body depth. The first rudimentary ray of the dorsal fin is more or less thickened and distinctly
separated from the first well-developed ray by a membrane. The lateral line is usually incomplete, but may be
complete in specimens from some geographic areas. The scales are cycloid and moderate in size. Andrews (1970),
reporting on fish collected in Colorado, noted that no scales were found on fish smaller than 14 mm, and the
average length for first scale formation was 16.3 mm. The scales in the lateral series number 41 to 54.
1.2 The mouth is terminal. The snout does not extend beyond the upper lip and is decidedly oblique. Nuptial
tubercles occur on mature males only, are large and well-developed on the snout, and rarely extend beyond the
nostrils. They occur in three main rows, with a few on the lower jaw. In addition to nuptial tubercles, the males
have an elongate, fleshy, or spongy pad extending in a narrow band from the nape to the dorsal fin. The pad is wide
anteriorly, and narrows to engulf the first dorsal ray. In addition, the sides of the body become almost black except
for two wide vertical bars which are light in color. In contrast to the males, the mature females remain quite drab.
Figure 1. Fathead minnow: adult female (left) and breeding male (right). (From
Eddy and Hodson, 1961).
1.3 The peritoneum is brownish-black, and the intestine is long and coiled one or more times.
1.4 Some external markings occur infrequently. Young occasionally have a dusky band on the snout and
opercules. Other young and adults, from clear and weedy waters, have a distinct, lateral band across the body. The
band may be absent inbreeding males or, if present, becomes very diffuse anteriorly. This band is usually most
apparent on preserved specimens. Dymond (1926), Trautman (1981), and others described the saddle-like pattern
often associated with breeding males in which a light area develops just behind the head and another beneath the
dorsal fin, the areas between producing a saddle affect. A dark spot is usually present in front of the dorsal fin in
mature males, and a narrow, dark, vertical bar or spot is present at the base of the caudal fin, but often is not very
distinct.
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2. TAXONOMY
2.1 The specific name (Pimephales promelas) appears to be incorrectly applied to this fish because the fathead
minnow does not fit the description originally given by Rafinesque (1820) (Lee et al., 1980). Common names
include "northern fathead minnow", and "blackhead minnow," in addition to fathead minnow. The holotype was
collected near Lexington, Kentucky.
2.2 Some geographic variations have been noted in the morphology of the fathead minnow. Vandermeer (1966)
indicated that the introduction of this species outside its native range may have resulted in some local deviations
from the broad patterns of geographic variation in taxonomic characters. Some populations have been designated as
subspecifically distinct: Pimephales promelas promelas, the northern form; P. p. harveyensis, the Harvey Lake
form, from Isle Royal in Lake Superior and P. p. confertus, the southern form (Hubbs and Lagler, 1949, 1964).
However, Taylor (1954), Vandermeer (1966), and others expressed doubt concerning the validity of assigning
subspecific status to the variants and recommended against their recognition. Vandermeer (1966), in a statistical
analysis of the geographic variations in taxonomic characters, stated that two of the three described subspecies
intergrade clinally.
2.3 Of the eight characters measured, two showed a north-south trend; (1) eye diameter, with the northern fish
having smaller eyes, and (2) completeness of the lateral line, with the northern fish having the least complete lateral
line. However, Scott and Grossman (1973), indicated that some Canadian populations exhibit a nearly complete
lateral line. The American Fisheries Society (1980) does not recognize any of the fathead minnow subspecies.
3 DISTRIBUTION
3.1 The fathead minnow is widely distributed in North America (Figure 2). It is a popular bait fish, and the ease
with which it is propagated has led to its widespread introduction both within and outside the native range of the
species. It has been so widely distributed in the eastern and southwestern United States by bait transportation that it
is difficult to determine its original range. The presumed native distribution (Vandermeer, 1966; Scott and
Grossman, 1973; Lee, et al., 1980) extended from the Great Slave Lake in the northwest to New Brunswick, in
eastern Canada, southward throughout the Mississippi valley in the United States, to southern Chihuahua in Mexico.
Distribution records for this species also now include Oregon (Andreasen, 1975), and the Central Valley (Kimsey
and Fisk, 1964) and other locations in California (Andreasen, 1975), but there are no records for British Columbia.
3.2 This species is found in a wide range of habitats. It is most abundant in muddy brooks, streams, creeks, ponds,
and small lakes, is uncommon or absent in streams of moderate and high gradients and in most of the larger and
deeper impoundments, and is tolerant of high temperature and turbidity, and low oxygen concentrations.
3.3 Species associated with the fathead minnow seem to vary greatly throughout its range (Scott and Grossman,
1973; Trautman 1981). Trautman (1981) reported that fathead minnows and bluntnose minnows, Pimephales
notatus (Rafinesque), were competitors, and that fathead minnows occurred in greatest numbers only where
bluntnose minnows were absent or comparatively few in number. He also stated that the fathead minnow may
hybridize with the bluntnose minnow.
3.4 The fathead minnow is primarily omnivorous, although Coyle (1930) reported algae to be one of its mainfoods
in Ohio. Elsewhere in the United States, young fish have been reported to feed on organic detritus from bottom
deposits, and unicellular and filamentous algae and planktonic organisms. Adults feed on aquatic insects, worms,
small crustaceans, and other animals. Scott and Grossman (1973) and others regard the fathead minnow as a highly
desirable forage fish, providing food for other fishes and birds.
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Figure 2. Map showing the distribution of the fathead minnow in North America.
Open circles represent transplanted populations. Most Atlantic
slope records are probably transplanted populations. (From Lee et
al., 1980).
4 GENERAL LIFE HISTORY
4.1 The natural history and spawning behavior (Markus, 1934; Flickinger, 1973; Andrews and Flickinger, 1974;
and others) of the fathead minnow are well known because of the early interest in raising the fish for bait and for
feeding other pond fish, such as bass. Sexual dimorphism occurs at maturity. Breeding males develop a
conspicuous, narrow, elongated, gray, fleshy pad of spongy tubercles on the back, anterior to the dorsal fin, and two
or three rows of strong nuptial tubercles across the snout. The sides of the body become almost black except for
two wide vertical bars which are light in color. In contrast, the females remain quite drab.
4.2 The initiation of spawning varies with temperature throughout its geographic range. Isaak (1961), Carlander
(1969), and others reported that, in the wild, fathead minnows begin spawning in the spring, when the water
temperature reaches 16-18°C, and continue to spawn throughout most of the summer. The minimum spawning
temperature, however, may vary with population and latitude.
4.3 Markus (1934) reported that spawning always occurred at night, whereas Isaak (1961) observed spawning
during the day, as well as at night. Gale and Buynak (1982) and others reported that spawning often began before
dawn and usually was completed before noon. Observations of the fathead minnow cultures at EPA's Newtown
Facility also indicate the majority of fathead minnows spawn in early morning.
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4.4 Breeding males are very territorial and select sites for spawning, such as the underside of a log or branch, rock,
board, tin can, or almost any other solid inanimate object, usually in water from 7 cm to 1 m in depth. A receptive
female is sought out and brought into position below the nest site. After circling below the nesting site, the female
is nudged and lifted on the male's back until she lies on her side immediately below the undersurface of the
spawning substrate, where she releases a small number of eggs (usually 100 to 150) at a time. The eggs are
adhesive and attach to the underside of the spawning substrate. The females have a urogenital structure (ovipositor)
to help deposit the eggs on the underside of objects. Flickinger (1966) indicated that the ovipositor is noticeable at
least a month prior to spawning. The reported size of the eggs varies from 1.15 mm (Markus, 1934) to 1.3 mm in
diameter (Wynne-Edwards, 1932).
4.5 Immediately after the eggs are laid, they are fertilized by the male, and the female is driven off. Once eggs are
deposited in the nest, the male becomes very aggressive and will use the large tubercles on his snout to help drive
off all intruding small fishes. In addition to fertilizing and guarding the eggs, the male agitates the water around the
eggs, which ventilates them and keeps them free of detritus. Some males will spawn with several females on the
same substrate, so that the nest may contain eggs in various stages of development. The number of eggs per nest
may vary from as few as nine or 10 to as many as 12,000.
4.6 The ovaries of the females contain eggs in all stages of development, and they spawn repeatedly as the eggs
mature. A female may deposit eggs in more than one nest. Although the average number of eggs per spawn is
generally 100 to 150, large females may lay 400 to 500 eggs per spawn.
4.7 Gale and Buynak (1982), in a study using five captive pairs of fathead minnows in separate outdoor pools,
observed that each pair produced 16 to 26 clutches of eggs between May and August. The time between spawns,
which ranged from 2-16 days, was affected by water temperature. As the temperature increased, the intervals
between spawning sessions become shorter and more uniform. In their study, from nine to 1,136 (mean of 414)
eggs were deposited per spawn. The average number of eggs deposited per spawn ranged from 371 to 480, and the
total number of eggs spawned per female ranged from 6,803 to 10,164 (mean of 8,604). The length of the spawning
period during a given season also varied greatly between females. The authors suggested that the fecundity of
fathead minnows is much higher than has generally been recognized, but they noted that fecundity offish in the
natural environment, where conditions might be more or less favorable, might differ from that of captive fish.
4.8 The incubation time depends on temperature, and is 4.5 to 6 days at 25 ° C. The newly-hatched young (larvae)
are about 5 mm long, white in color, and have large black eyes. The general appearance and typical pigmentation of
the various larval stages are illustrated in Figures 3 A-3M. In a warm, food-rich environment, growth is rapid.
Markus (1934) stated that fish hatched in May in Iowa reached adult size and were spawning by late July. Hubbs
and Cooper (1935) and others noted that such rapid growth is unlikely in more northerly waters, and that the young
do not spawn the first year. In cooler water the adult size is probably not reached until the second year. The males
generally grow faster than the females, a characteristic of minnow species.
4.9 The fathead minnow is short lived, and rarely survives to the third year. However, Scott and Grossman (1973)
stated that longevity varies throughout the geographic range of the species. Post-spawning mortality was reported
to be great by several authors, but was not observed by Gale and Buynak (1982). However, in defending their
territory, male fish, may become weakened by a lack of food over a prolonged period and their resistance to disease
may be lowered. Also, at spawning time, many waters are warm and somewhat stagnate, favoring the spread of fish
parasites and disease.
5 CULTURE METHODS
5.1 OUTSIDE SOURCES OF FATHEAD MINNOWS
5.1.1 Fathead minnows are available from commercial biological supply houses. Fish obtained from outside
sources for use as brood stock or in toxicity tests may not always be of suitable age and quality. Fish provided by
supply houses should be guaranteed to be of (1) the correct species, (2) disease free, (3) in the requested age range,
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(4) and in good condition. The latter can be done by providing the record of the date on which the eggs were laid
and hatched, and information on LC50 of contemporary fish using reference toxicants.
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B
D
Figure 3. Fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) larvae: A. protolarva, lateral
view, 4.3 mm TL; B. protolarva, dorsal view, 5.6 mm TL; C.
protolarva, lateral view, 5.6 mm TL; D. protolarva, ventral view,
5.6 mm TL; E. mesolarva, lateral view, 6.9 mm TL;
dorsal view, 7.9 mm TL; G. mesolarva, lateral view, 7
Snyder et al., 1977).
F. mesolarva,
9 mm TL; (From
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H fe
$#&'. •. '< \& JvSSsr??1
K
M
Figure 3. Fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) larvae. H. mesolarva, ventral
view, 7.9 mm TL; I. ntetalarva, lateral view, 9.3 mm TL; 0.
metalarva, dorsal view, 14.3 mm TL; K. metalarva, lateral view, 14.3
mm TL; L. metalarva, ventral view, 14.3 mm TL; M. late metalarva,
lateral view, 19.6 mm TL (CONTINUED) (from Snyder et al., 1977).
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5.2 INHOUSE SOURCES OF FATHEAD MINNOWS
5.2.1 Problems in obtaining suitable fish from outside laboratories can be avoided by developing an inhouse
laboratory culture facility. Fathead minnows can be easily cultured in static, recirculating, or flow-through systems.
5.2.2 Flow-through systems require large volumes of water and may not be feasible in some laboratories. The
culture tanks should be shielded from extraneous disturbances using opaque curtains, and should be isolated from
toxicity testing activities to prevent contamination.
5.2.3 To avoid the possibility of inbreeding of the inhouse brood stock, fish from an outside source should be
introduced yearly into the culture unit.
5.2.4 The inhouse culture facility consists of the following components:
5.2.4.1 Water Supply
5.2.4.1.1 WaterQuality
5.2.4.1.1.1 Reconstituted (synthetic) water or dechlorinated tap water can be used, but natural water may be
preferred. To determine water quality, it is desirable to analyze the water for toxic metals and organics quarterly
(see Section 4, Quality Assurance). Temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, hardness, and alkalinity should also be
measured periodically.
5.2.4.1.1.2 If astatic or recirculating system is used, it is necessary to equip each tank with an outside activated
carbon filter system, similar to those sold for tropical fish hobbyists (or one large activated carbon filter system for a
series of tanks) to prevent the accumulation of toxic metabolic wastes (principally nitrite and ammonia) in the water.
5.2.4.1.2 Dissolved oxygen
5.2.4.1.2.1 The DO concentration in the culture tanks should be maintained near saturation, using gentle aeration
with 15 cm air stones if necessary. Brungs (1971), in a carefully controlled long-term study, found that the growth
of fathead minnows was reduced significantly at all DO concentrations below 7.9 mg/L. Soderberg (1982)
presented an analytical approach to the re-aeration of flowing water for culture systems.
5.2.4.2 Maintenance
5.2.4.2.1 Adequate procedures for culture maintenance must be followed to avoid poor water quality in the culture
system. The spawning and brood stock culture tanks should be kept free of debris (excess food, detritus, waste,
etc.) by siphoning the accumulated materials (such as dead brine shrimp nauplii or cysts) from the bottom of the
tanks daily with a glass siphon tube attached to a plastic hose leading to the floor drain. The tanks are more
thoroughly cleaned as required. Algae, mostly diatoms and green algae, growing on the glass of the spawning tanks
are left in place, except for the front of the tank, which is kept clean for observation. To avoid excessive build-up of
algal growth, the walls of the tanks are periodically scraped. The larval culture tanks are cleaned once or twice a
week to reduce the mass of fungus growing on the bottom of the tank.
5.2.4.2.2 Activated charcoal and floss in the tank filtration systems should be changed weekly, or more often if
needed. Culture water may be maintained by preparation of reconstituted water or use of dechlorinated tap water.
Distilled or deionized water is added as needed to compensate for evaporation.
5.2.4.2.3 Before new fish are placed in tanks, salt deposits are removed by scraping or with 5% acid solution, the
tanks are washed with detergent, sterilized with a hypochlorite solution, and rinsed well with hot tap water and then
with laboratory water.
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5.2.5 SPAWNING TANKS AND CULTURE CONDITIONS
5.2.5.1 For breeding tanks, it is convenient to use 60 L (15 gal) or 76 L (20 gal) aquaria. The spawning unit is
designed to simulate conditions in nature conductive to spawning, such as water temperature and photoperiod.
Spawning tanks must be held at a temperature of 25 ±2 ° C. Each aquarium is equipped with a heater, if necessary, a
continuous filtering unit, and spawning substrates. The photoperiod for the culture system should be maintained at
16 h light and 8 h darkness. For the spawning tanks, this photoperiod must be rigidly controlled. A convenient
photoperiod is 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Fluorescent lights should be suspended about 60 cm above the surface of the
water in the brood and larval tanks. Both DURATEST® and cool-white fluorescent lamps have been used, and
product similar results. An illumination level of 10-20 uE/m2/s (50-100 ft-c) is adequate.
5.2.6 SPAWNING BEHAVIOR AND CONDITIONS
5.2.6.1 To simulate the natural spawning environment, it is necessary to provide substrates (nesting territories)
upon which the eggs can be deposited and fertilized, and which are defended and cared for by the males. The
recommended spawning substrates consist of inverted half-cylinders, such as 7.6 cm x 7.6 cm (3 in. X 3 in.)
sections of schedule 40, PVC pipe. The substrates should be placed equi-distant from each other on the bottom of
the tanks.
5.2.6.2 To establish a breeding unit, 15-20 pre-spawning adults six to eight months old are taken from a "holding"
or culture tank and placed in a 76 L spawning tank. At this point, it is not possible to distinguish the sexes.
However, after less than a week in the spawning tank, the breeding males will develop their distinct coloration and
territorial behavior, and spawning will begin. As the breeding males are identified, all but two are removed,
providing a final ratio of 5-6 females per male. The excess spawning substrates are used as shelter by the females.
5.2.6.3 Sexing of the fish to ensure a correct female/male ratio in each tank can be a problem. However, the task
usually becomes easier as experience is gained (Flickinger, 1966). Sexually mature females usually have large
bellies and a tapered snout. The sexually mature males are usually distinguished by their larger overall size, dark
vertical color bands, and the spongy nuptial tubercles on the snout. Unless the males exhibit these secondary
breeding characteristics, no reliable method has been found to distinguish them from females. However, using the
coloration of the males and the presence of an enlarged urogenital structures and other characteristics of the females,
the correct selection of the sexes can usually be achieved by trial and error.
5.2.6.4 Sexually immature males are usually recognized by their aggressive behavior and partial banding. These
undeveloped males must be removed from the spawning tanks because they will eat the eggs and constantly harass
the mature males, tiring them and reducing the fecundity of the breeding unit. Therefore, the fish in the spawning
tanks must be carefully checked periodically for extra males.
5.2.6.5 A breeding unit will remain in their spawning tank about four months. Thus, each brood tank or unit is
stocked with new spawners about three times a year. However, the restocking process is rotated so that at any one
time the spawning tanks contain different age groups of brood fish.
5.2.7 EMBRYO COLLECTION
5.2.7.1 Fathead minnows spawn mostly in the early morning hours. They should not be disturbed except for a
morning feeding (approximately 8:00 AM) and daily examination of substrates for eggs in late morning or early
afternoon. In nature, the male protects, cleans, and aerates the eggs until they hatch. In the laboratory, however, it
is necessary to remove the eggs from the tanks to prevent them from being eaten by the adults, and for ease of
handling for purposes of recording embryo count and hatchability, and for the use of the newly hatched for young
fish for toxicity tests.
5.2.7.2 Daily, beginning six to eight hours after the lights are turned on (i.e., 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM), the substrates
in the spawning tanks are each lifted carefully and inspected for embryos. Substrates without embryos are
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immediately returned to the spawning tank. Those with embryos are immersed in clean water in a collecting tray,
and replaced with a clean substrate. A daily record is maintained of each spawning site and estimated number of
embryos on the substrate.
5.2.8 EMBRYO INCUBATION
5.2.8.1 Three different methods are described for embryo incubation.
5.2.8.1.1 Incubation of Embryos on the Substrates: Several (2-4) substrates are placed on end in a circular pattern
(with the embryos on the inner side) in 10 cm of water in a tray. The tray is then placed in a constant temperature
water bath, and the embryos are aerated with a 2.5 cm airstone placed in the center of the circle. The embryos are
examined daily, and the dead and fungused embryos are counted, recorded, and removed with forceps. At an
incubation temperature of 25 °C, 75-100% hatch occurs in five days. At22°C, embryos incubated on aerated tiles
require seven days for 50% hatch.
5.2.8.1.2 Incubation of Embryos in a Separatorv Funnel: The embryos are removed from the substrates with a
rolling action of the index finger ("rolled off')(Gast and Brungs, 1973), their total volume is measured, and the
number of embryos is calculated using a conversion factor of approximately 430 embryos/mL. The embryos are
incubated in about 1.5 L of water in a 2 L separatory funnel maintained in a water bath. The embryos are stirred in
the separatory funnel by bubbling air from the tip of a plastic micro-pipette placed at the bottom, inside the
separatory funnel. During the first two days, the embryos are taken from the funnel daily, those that are dead and
fungused are removed, and those that are alive are returned to the separatory funnel in clean water. The embryos
hatch in four days at a temperature of 25 ° C. However, usually on day three the eyed embryos are removed from the
separatory funnel and placed in water in a plastic tray and gently aerated with an air stone. Using this method, the
embryos hatch in five days.
5.2.8.1.2.1 Hatching time is greatly influenced by the amount of agitation of the embryos and the incubation
temperature. If on day three the embryos are transferred from the separatory funnel to a static, unaerated container,
a 50% hatch will occur in six days (instead of five) and a 100% hatch will occur in 7 days.
5.2.8.1.3 Incubation in Embryo Incubation Cups: The embryos are "rolled off the substrates, and the total number
is estimated by determining the volume. The embryos are then placed in incubation cups attached to a rocker arm
assembly (Mount, 1968). Both flow-through and static renewal incubation have been used. On day one, the
embryos are removed from the cups and those that are dead and fungused are removed. After day one, only dead
embryos are removed from the cups. Most of the embryos will hatch in five days if incubated at 25 ° C.
5.2.8.1.4 During the incubation period, the eggs are examined daily for viability and fungal growth, until they
hatch. Unfertilized eggs, and eggs that have become infected by fungus, should be removed with forceps using a
table top magnifier-illuminator. Non-viable eggs become milky and opaque, and are easily recognized. The
non-viable eggs are very susceptible to fungal infection, which may then spread throughout the egg mass. Removal
of fungused eggs should be done quickly, and the spawning substrates should be returned to the incubation tanks as
quickly as possible so that the good eggs are not damaged by desiccation.
5.2.9 LARVAE REARING TANKS
5.2.9.1 Newly-hatched larvae are transferred daily from the egg incubation apparatus to small rearing tanks, using
a large bore pipette, until the hatch is complete. New rearing tanks are set up on a daily basis to separate fish by age
group. Approximately 1500 newly hatched larvae are placed in a 60 L (15 gal) or 76 L (20 gal) all-glass aquarium
for 30 days. A density of 150 fry per liter is suitable for the first four weeks. The water temperature in the rearing
tanks is allowed to follow ambient laboratory temperatures of 20-25 °C, but sudden, extreme, variations in
temperature must be avoided.
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5.2.10 HOLDING OR CULTURE TANKS FOR REPLACEMENT SPAWNERS
5.2.10.1 Replacement spawners (brood stock) are cultured from larvae produced in the spawning tanks. After 30
days in a larval rearing tank, a number of juveniles, equivalent to 2-4 days hatch are transferred to brood stock tanks
for a 30-60 day growth period. The sub-adults then are transferred to 500-L brood stock tanks to provide about 500
sub-adult fish per month for the brood tank rotation. The surplus fish are transferred to 2000-L fiber glass, or
equivalent, holding tanks.
5.2.10.2 Surplus young males removed from spawning tanks, and other surplus mature males, are placed in
all-male holding tanks for future use as spawners. Similarly, young and surplus mature females are held in
all-female holding tanks until needed as spawners. Tanks holding replacement spawners need not be
temperature-controlled, but for ease of transfer to the spawning tanks, it is preferable to hold the water temperature
close to that of the spawning tanks (25 ± 2°C).
5.2.11 FOOD AND FEEDING
5.2.11.1 Newly hatched brine shrimp nauplii or frozen adult brine shrimp and commercial fish starter are fed to the
fish cultures in volumes based on age, size, and number offish in the tanks. The amount of food and feeding
schedule affects both growth and egg production.
5.2.11.2 Fish from hatch to 30 days old are fed starter food at the beginning and end of the work day, and newly
hatched brine shrimp nauplii (from the brine shrimp culture unit) twice a day, usually mid-morning and
mid-afternoon. Utilization of older (larger) brine shrimp nauplii may result in starvation of the young fish because
they are unable to ingest the larger food organisms (see Appendix A.4 for instructions on the preparation of brine
shrimp nauplii). Avoid introducing Artemia cysts and empty shells when the brine shrimp nauplii are fed to the fish
larvae. Some of the mortality of the larval fish observed in cultures could be caused from the ingestion of these
materials.
5.2.11.3 Fish older than four weeks are fed frozen brine shrimp and commercial fish starter (#1 and #2), which is
ground fish meal enriched with vitamins. As the fish grow, larger pellet sizes are used, as appropriate.
5.2.11.4 The spawning fish and pre-spawners in holding tanks usually are fed all the adult frozen brine shrimp and
tropical fish flake food or dry commercial fish food (No. 1 or No. 2 granules) that they can eat (ad libitum) at the
beginning of the work day and in the late afternoon (i.e., 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM). The fish are feed twice a day,
twice with dry food and once with adult shrimp, during the week, and once a day on weekends.
5.2.12 DISEASE CONTROL
5.2.12.1 Fish are observed daily for abnormal appearance or behavior. Bacterial or fungal infections are the most
common diseases encountered. However, if normal precautions are taken, disease outbreaks will rarely, if ever,
occur. Hoffman and Mitchell (1980) have put together a list of some chemicals that have been used commonly for
fish diseases and pests.
5.2.12.2 Treatment of individual lots of infected fish should be carried out separate from the main culture. Use of
treated fish should be avoided, if possible, and diseased cultures should be replaced.
5.2.12.3 In aquatic culture systems where filtration is utilized, the application of certain antibacterial agents should
be used with caution. A treatment with a single dose of antibacterial drugs can interrupt nitrate reduction and stop
nitrification for various periods of time, resulting in changes in pH, and in ammonia, nitrite and nitrate
concentrations (Collins et al., 1976). These changes could cause the death of the culture
organisms.
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5.2.12.4 To prevent possible rapid spread of disease, do not transfer equipment from one tank to another without
first disinfecting tanks and nets. If an outbreak of disease occurs, any equipment, such as nets, airlines, tanks, etc.,
which has been exposed to diseased fish should be disinfected with sodium hypochlorite. Also to avoid the
contamination of cultures or spread of disease, each time nets used to remove live or dead fish from tanks, they are
first sterilized with sodium hypochlorite or formalin, and rinsed in hot tap water. Before a new lot of fish is
transferred to culture tanks, the tanks are cleaned and sterilized as described above.
5.2.13 RECORD KEEPING
5.2.13.1 Records are kept in a bound notebook, include: (1) type of food and time of feeding for all fish tanks; (2)
time of examination of the tiles for embryos, the estimated number of embryos on the tile, and the tile position
number; (3) estimated number of dead embryos and embryos with fungus observed during the embryonic
development stages; (4) source of all fish; and (5) daily observation of the condition and behavior of the fish.
5.2.14 REFERENCE TOXICANTS
5.2.14.1 It is recommended that static acute toxicity tests be performed monthly with a reference toxicant. Fathead
minnow larvae one to 14 days old are used to monitor the acute toxicity of the reference toxicant to the test fish
produced by the culture unit.
6 TEST ORGANISMS
6.1 Fish 1-14 days old are used in acute toxicity tests.
6.2 If the fish are kept in a holding tank or container, most of the water should be siphoned off to concentrate the
fish. The fish are then transferred one at a time randomly to the test chambers until each chamber contain 10 fish.
Alternately, fish may be placed one to two at a time into small beakers or plastic containers until they each contain
five fish. Two of these beakers/plastic containers (total of 10 fish) are then assigned to each randomly-arranged
control and exposure chamber.
6.3 The fish are transferred directly to the test vessels or intermediate chambers using a large-bore, fire-polished
glass tube (6 mm to 9 mm ID. X 30 cm long) equipped with a rubber bulb, or a large volumetric pipet with tip
removed and fitted with a safety type bulb filler. The glass or plastic containers should only contain a small volume
of dilution water.
6.4 It is important to note that larvae should not be handled with a dip net. Dipping small fish with a net may
result in damage to the fish and cause mortality.
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Designation: E 1203-87, Annual Book of Standards, Vol. 11.04, ASTM, Philadelphia, PA.
Andreasen, J.K. 1975. Occurrence of the fathead minnow, Pimephales promelas, in Oregon. Calif. Fish Game
6(3):155-156.
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Andrews, A.K. 1971. Altitudinal range extension for the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). Copeia 1:169.
Andrews, A. and Flickinger, S. 1974. Spawning requirements and characteristics of the fathead minnow.
Proc. Ann. Conf. Southeastern Assoc. Game Fish Comm. 27:759-766.
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Prog. Fish. Cult. 39(2):67-69.
Brown, B.E. 1970. Exponential decrease in a population of fathead minnows. Trans. Am. Fish. Soc.
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Brungs, W.A. 197 la. Chronic effects of elevated temperature on the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas
Rafinesque). Environmental Research Laboratory. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Duluth, MN. EPA
600/8-81/011.
Brungs, W.A. 1971b. Chronic effects of low dissolved oxygen concentrations on fathead minnows (Pimephales
promelas). J. Fish. Res. Bd. Can. 28:1119-1123.
Buttner, J.K. and Duda, S. W. 1988. Maintenance and reproduction of fathead minnows in the laboratory. Aquatic
Ecology Section, Department of Biological Sciences, SUNY College at Brockport, Brockport, NY 14420.
Carlander, K. 1969. Handbook of freshwater fishery biology, Vol. 1. Iowa State Univ. Press, Ames, IA.
Chiasson, A.G. and Gee, J.H. 1983. Swim bladder gas composition and control of buoyancy by fathead minnows
(Pimephalespromelas) during exposure to hypoxia. Can. J. Zool. 61(10):2213-2218.
Clay, W. 1962. The Fishes of Kentucky. Kentucky Dept. Fish and Wildlife Res., Frankfort, KY.
Coble, D.W. 1970. Vulnerability of fathead minnows infected with yellow grub to largemouth bass predation. J.
Parasitol. 56(2):395-396.
Collins, M.T., Gratzer, J.B., Dawe, D.L., and Nemetz, T.G. 1976. Effects of antibacterial agents on nitrification in
aquatic recirculating systems. J. Fish. Res. Bd. Can. 33:215-218.
Coyle, E.E. 1930. The algal food of Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow). Ohio J. Sci. 30(l):23-35.
Cross, F.B. 1967. Handbook of fishes of Kansas. Univ. Kansas Mus. Natur. Hist. Misc. Publ. 45:1-357.
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Denny, J.S. 1987. Guidelines forthe culture of fathead minnows Pimephales promelas foruse intoxicity tests.
Environmental Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Duluth, MN. EPA 600/3-87-001.
Dixon, R.D. 1971. Predationof mosquito larvae by the fathead minnow, Pimephales promelas Rafinesque. Manit.
Entomol. 5:68-70.
Drummond, R.A. and Dawson, W.F. 1970. An inexpensive method for simulating diel patterns of lighting in the
laboratory. Trans. Am. Fish Soc. 99:434-435.
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Eddy, S. and Hodson, A.C. 1961. Taxonomic keys to the common animals of the north central states.
Burgess Publ. Co., Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Flickinger, S.A. 1966. Determination of sexes in the fathead minnow. Trans. Amer. Fish. Soc. 98(3):526-527.
Flickinger, S.A. 1973. Investigation of pond spawning methods for fathead minnows. Proc. Ann. Conf. Southeast.
Assoc. Game and Fish Commiss. 26:376-391.
Gale, W.F. and Buynak, G.L. 1982. Fecundity and spawning frequency of the fathead minnow~A fractional
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Cast, M.H. and Brungs, W. A. 1973. A procedure for separating eggs of the fathead minnow. Prog. Fish. Cult.
35:54.
Guest, W.C. 1977. Technique for collecting and incubating eggs of the fathead minnow. Prog. Fish. Cult.
39(4): 188.
Hedges, S. and Ball, R. 1953. Production and harvest of bait fishes in ponds. In: Michigan Dept. Conservation.
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Held, J.W. and Peterka, JJ. 1974. Age, Growth, and food habits of the fathead minnow, Pimephales promelas, in
North Dakota saline lakes. Trans. Am. Fish. Soc. 103(4):743-756.
Hendrickson, G.L. 1979. Ornithodiplostomum ptychocheilus: migration to the brain of the fish intermediate host,
Pimephales promelas. Exp. Parasit. 48:245-258.
Herwig, N. 1979. Handbook of drugs and chemicals used in the treatment of fish diseases. Charles C. Thomas,
Publ., Springfield, IL. 272 pp.
Hoffman, G.L. 1958. Studies on the life cycle of Ornithodiplostomum ptychocheilus (Faust) (Trematoda:
Strigeoidea) and the "self cure" in infected fish. J. Parasitol. 44(4):416-421.
Hoffman, G.L. and Mitchell, A. J. 1980. Some chemicals that have been used for fish diseases and pests. Fish
Farming Exp. Sta., Stuttgart, AR. 72160. 8pp.
Hubbs, C.L. and Cooper, G.P. 1935. Age and growth of the long eared and the green sunfishes in Michigan. Pap.
Mich. Acad. Sci. Arts. Letts. 20:669-696.
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Ingram, R. and Wares, II, W.D. 1979. Oxygen consumption in the fathead minnow (Pimephalespromelas
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Soc. 69:273-278.
Klinger, S.A., Magnuson, J.J., and Gallepp, G.W. 1982. Survival mechanisms of the central mudminnow (Umbra
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winter. Envirn. Biol. Fish. 7(20):113-120.
Konefes, J.L. andBachmann, R.W. 1972. Growth of the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) in tertiary
treatment ponds. Proc. Iowa Acad. Sci. 77:104-111.
Lee, D.S., Gilbert, C.R., Hocutt, C.H., Jenkins, R.E., McAllister, D.E., and Stauffer, R., Jr. 1980. Atlas of North
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Trans. Am. Fish. Soc. 57:92-99.
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Pimephales promelas. Trans. Amer. Fish. Soc. 106(1): 110-114.
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wA P. promelas) (Pisces, Cyprinidae). Biol. Behav. 9(3):227-234.
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Smith, H.T., Schreck, C.B., and Maughan, O.E. 1978. Effect of population density and feeding rate on the fathead
minnow (Pimephalespromelas). J. Fish. Biol. 12:449-455.
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Pimephales promelas. Can. J. Zool. 56:2103-2109.
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Soderberg, R.W. 1982. Aeration of water supplies for fish culture in flowing water. Prog. Fish-Cult. 44(2):89-93.
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Fish. Cult. 34(4):241-242.
Syrett, R.F. and Dawson, W.F. 1975. An inexpensive solid state temperature controller. Prog. Fish. Cult.
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Trautman, M.B. 1981. The fishes of Ohio. Rev. ed., Ohio State Univ. Press., Columbus, Ohio. 782pp.
Vandermeer, J.H. 1966. Statistical analysis of geographic variation of the fathead minnow, Pimephales promelas.
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APPENDIX A
DISTRIBUTION, LIFE CYCLE, TAXONOMY, AND CULTURE METHODS
A.6 RAINBOW TROUT, ONCORHYNCHUS MYKISS AND
BROOK TROUT, SALVELINIUS FONTINALIS
1 RAINBOW TROUT
1.1 SYSTEMATICS AND TAXONOMY
1.1.1 Rainbow trout are native to the streams of the Pacific coast where several varieties or strains have developed.
The seagoing form is known as the steelhead trout and is thought to be identical to the strictly freshwater rainbow
form. Many other strains, for example, the inland lake form (Kamloops trout) are found in other watersheds.
Because of the ease with which the eggs can be transported, different strains have been distributed all over the
world.
1.1.2 Rainbow trout are a variable species that differ considerably over the whole of their range. Populations in
different regions and watersheds of North America have been referred to over the years by different scientific names
(e.g. species, distinct subspecies, or variants of a single species and different regional common names). In recent
years the validity of the generic name, Salmo, for some western North American trout species has been questioned.
Fish taxonomists agree that native "Salmo" trouts of the northern Pacific Ocean drainage are closely related with
Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. The American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists and the American
Fisheries Society have accepted Oncorhynchus as the appropriate generic name for all native Pacific drainage trouts
that are presently called Salmo, based on new data and evidence by Smith and Stearly (1989). Furthermore, the
Names of Fishes Committee of the American Fisheries Society has adopted the specific name, Oncorhynchus
mykiss, for the rainbow trout and its anadromous form, steelhead trout. The new names for the other North
American species affected are the following: Apache trout (O. apache), cutthroat trout (O. clarki), Gila trout (O.
gilae), golden trout (O. aguabonita), and Mexican golden trout (O. chrysogaster).
1.2 DISTRIBUTION
1.2.1 The native range of the rainbow trout group (all varieties) in North America is west of the Rocky Mountains
and along the eastern Pacific Ocean, but the species (Oncorhynchus mykiss) has now been introduced into many
parts of the continent (Figure 1). Except for the northern and southern extremes of the rainbow trout range,
anadromous populations occur in all coastal rivers. This species, under all its common names (rainbow trout,
Kamloops trout, steelhead trout, steelhead, coast rainbow trout, and silver trout), has been so widely introduced in
North America outside its natural range as to suggest it may occur throughout the United States in all suitable
habitats. Rainbow trout are widely introduced and established in appropriate cold water habitats all over the world.
1.3 GENERAL LIFE HISTORY
1.3.1 In its natural environment of flowing streams of the western mountains, the rainbow trout (Figure 2) thrives
best at temperatures ranging from 3 °C in the winter to 21 °C in the summer, but the optimum temperature is
between 10-16°C. The rainbow trout can withstand higher and lower temperature if it is acclimated gradually.
However, the rainbow trout's growth is impeded by extremes of temperature, for example, above 27 ° C which it can
tolerate only for short periods of time.
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*w
f#
Figure 1. Map showing the distribution of the rainbow trout in North America.
(Modified from Lee et al., 1980).
Figure 2. Rainbow trout (Modified from Eddy and Underbill, 1974).
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1.3.2 Rainbow trout are basically spring spawners, but they can spawn at the beginning of summer or early winter,
depending on climate, elevation, and genetic strain. If the spawning occurs in late fall or in winter, the eggs do not
hatch until spring. Prior to the spawning season adult males develop a kype (elongated hooked snout) on the lower
jaw and their colors intensify. Males and females usually migrate upstream and select spawning sites in beds of
fine, clean gravel in riffles or runs above pools in streams. Long journeys may be made by lake-dwelling rainbow
(or Kamloops) and steelhead trouts or anadromous, ocean-run rainbow steelheads. If the rainbow trout are confined
to land-locked lakes, they move into shallow shoals or reefs of gravel and sand for spawning. Females dig out pits
or sweep out depressions (redds) in the gravel or sand and later spawn with males. Males are capable of displaying
aggressive behavior on the spawning grounds and can drive other males away from a redd occupied by a female. In
general, one or more males court the digging female by sliding along side and crossing over her body and rubbing
their snout against her caudal peduncle with body pressing and body vibrations. The female deposits her eggs,
which are 3-5 mm in diameter, demersal, and pink to orange in color. The eggs are immediately fertilized by one or
more males, fall into spaces between the gravel, and are covered with loose gravel or sand to depths of 20 cm or
more by the female. Females are capable of digging and spawning in several redds with the same male or different
males. The number of eggs released can range from 400-3000, depending on the size of the female.
1.3.3 Eggs usually hatch in approximately four to seven weeks. The time of hatching, however, varies greatly with
region and habitat. If the stream temperature averages 7°C, eggs will hatch in about 48 days. The newly hatched
fish, called alevins, have a yolk sac, which is absorbed in three to seven days. After the yolk sac is absorbed, the
young are called fry, and begin feeding in 10-15 days. In general, rainbow trout feed on a variety of invertebrates.
Also, depending on their size and the habitat in which they live, other fishes and fish eggs, especially salmon, can
be important food. The fry of lake-resident spawners move up or down the spawning river to the lake, or they may
spend as much as one to three years in the streams. The stream-resident spawners remain in the streams, whereas
the steelhead trout, which are stream-spawners, migrate to the sea, usually after 1-4 years in freshwater.
1.3.4 The growth of rainbow trout is highly variable with the area, habitat, type of life history, and quantity and
type of food. Some males may be good breeders at two years of age, but few females produce eggs until their third
year of life. Rainbow trout young attain fingerling size of about 76 mm by the end of their first summer. The
length may range between 178-204 mm at the end of the second year, 279-382 mm after the third year, 356-406 mm
after the fourth year, and 406 mm or more after the fifth year. Lake- and ocean-run rainbows may grow over twice
as fast as this. However, the average length of rainbow trout (or Kamloops trout) is 305-458 mm and that of
steelhead trout is 508-762 mm. Under favorable conditions of artificial propagation, yearlings average about 28 g,
2-year-olds about 255 g, 3-year-olds between 0.45-9 kg, and 4-year-olds between 1.4-1.8 kg. Returning sea-run
individuals weigh up to 18 kg, or even more, but usually between 1.4-9 kg with the majority weighing less than 5.4
kg. Some western varieties weight up to 23 kg, but the midwest rainbows are much smaller. Those in streams are
rarely over 1.4 kg, but in some large lakes (e.g., Lake Superior) and in some western lakes they may reach 7 kg or
much larger. The life expectancy of rainbow trout can be as low as three or four years in many streams and Lake
populations, but that of seagoing steelhead rainbow trout and Great lakes populations would appear to be 6 to 8
years (Scott and Grossman, 1973).
1.4 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1.4.1 Adult rainbow trout are bluish or olive green above and silvery on the sides, with a broad pink lateral stripe
that is enhanced during the spawning season. The back, the sides, and the dorsal and caudal fins are profusely
dotted with small dark spots. Their color is variable with habitat, size, and sexual condition. Stream forms and
spawners are generally darker with color more intense, lake forms lighter, brighter, and more silvery. Different
color types are often called by different names, e.g., darker stream fish often called rainbows; larger, brighter,
silvery fish in western lakes often called Kamloops trout, and large silvery specimens returning from the sea and in
the Great Lakes or tributaries called steelhead trout. The scales are large, numbering 120 to 150 in the lateral line.
The caudal fin is very slightly forked. The dorsal fin has 11 rays, and the anal fin has from 10 to 12 rays.
1.4.2 Young rainbow trout are typically blue to green on the dorsal surface, silver to white on the sides and white
ventrally. There are 5-10 dark marks on the back between the head and dorsal fin. Also, there are 5-10 short, dark,
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oval parr marks widely spaced on the sides, straddling the lateral line with some small dark spots above but not
below the lateral line. The dorsal fin has a white to orange tip and a dark leading edge, or a series of bars or spots.
The adipose fin is edged with black, and the anal fin has an orange to white tip.
2. BROOK TROUT
2.1 SYSTEMATICS AND TAXONOMY
2.1.1 Brook trout can be found exhibiting some variation in growth rate and color throughout its range, but is
considered a stable and well-defined species (American Fishery Society, 1980). Male brook trout may be crossed
with female lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) to produce fertile hybrids that are known as splake. Troutman
(1981) and other papers cited in this section indicate that brook trout can naturally and artificially hybridize with
brown trout (Salmo trutta) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). For additional information and discussion on
freshwater and anadromous brook trout stocks and systematic notes of brook trout, see Scott and Grossman (1973)
and other papers cited in this section.
2.2 DISTRIBUTION
2.2.1 The native range of the brook trout (Figure 3) is eastern North America, extending throughout much of
eastern Canada from Hudson Bay and Ungava Bay drainages and Labrador; southward through the New England
States and in the Appalachian Mountains to the headwaters of the Savannah, Chattahoochee, and Tennessee Rivers
in the Carolinas and Georgia. In the Great Lakes, brook trout are native to Lake Superior and tributaries to the
northern tip of the Lower Peninsula, the interior of the Great Lakes basin. They are also native to a few far-northern
headwaters of the upper Mississippi river system, and western Minnesota and northeastern Iowa.
2.2.2 The brook trout has been widely introduced to higher elevations in western North America. This species is
also found in temperate regions of other continents. Inland forms are found in colder lakes and streams, and sea-run
(anadromous) forms are found in the northeastern North American coastal water areas.
1 y ^ -jg-fr. ._ ' - S. •^•W^ *»
? * P "c^?tll?2> U^i i^*1'
/\ I v-^ *j*j£- 0-^5,
V-i.C^. y^'-i
fcl ' -V_= 1 ^
Figure 3. Hap showing the distribution of the brook trout in North America.
(Modified from Lee et al., 1980).
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2.3 GENERAL LIFE HISTORY
2.3.1 Brook trout (Figure 4) are generally found in clear brooks, streams, and rivers in which the mean temperature
rarely exceeds 10°C. The optimum temperature is reported as ranging from 7 to 13°C, but they may be found living
in waters with temperatures ranging from 1 to 22°C (Piper et al. 1982). The brook trout usually inhabits waters
which flow less swiftly than those inhabited by the rainbow. Brook trout also thrive in the small cold-water lakes of
the Great Lakes region, provided that suitable spawning conditions exist.
2.3.2 Brook trout spawn in late summer or autumn, the date varying with latitude and temperature, usually from
late October to December when the water temperature is suitable although some may start spawning in September in
certain streams flowing into large lakes. Some females are capable of spawning when they are a year old, while
others do not mature until the second year. When the spawning season occurs, brook trout move upstream into
small head waters or brooks where they select gravel and sand substrates usually in shallow riffle areas or the tail-
ends of pools for the spawning beds. Spawning usually occurs during the day.
2.3.3 The female prepares a nest (redd), similar to those of the rainbow trout, by sweeping out a depression in the
gravel and sand substrate. During preparation of the redd, the male starts courtship by quivering around the female
and driving off all intruders. When the female is ready to spawn, she takes a position above and close to the redd.
The male gets close to her side and arches his body over hers, discharging milt as the female deposits her eggs.
Occasionally second male may join them in the spawning. After spawning, the male leaves.
Figure 4. Brook trout. (Modified from Eddy and Underbill, 1974).
2.3.4 The eggs are 3.5 to 5.0 mm in diameter, are adhesive, and adhere to the gravel at the bottom of the redd. The
female pushes loose gravel and sand to the center, covering the entire redd, and then desert the nest. A female may
spawn several times, and the number of eggs can vary from 100 to 5000, depending on the size of the female.
2.3.5 The eggs remain in the redd until the water temperature rises during the following spring. If the level of DO
is adequate, the eggs will hatch in approximately 75 days at an average water temperature of 6.1 °C, and in
approximately 50 days at an average temperature of 10 °C. The upper lethal temperature limit for developing eggs is
about 11.7°C (Scott and Grossman, 1973).
2.3.6 After the eggs hatch, the larvae (sac fry) remain in the gravel of the redd until the yolk is absorbed.
Depending on the water temperature, it may take from one to three months for the yolk sac to be absorbed (Lagler,
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1956). While the yolk sac is absorbed, the fry work themselves free from the gravel and start feeding. They
become free swimming at about 38 mm long. Under natural conditions, newly hatched brook trout establish small
feeding territories in the stream and feed on small aquatic insects, insect larvae, and other organisms.
2.3.7 Growth of brook trout is extremely variable, depending on the suitability of the environment. The average
length attained at various ages may approximate 8.9 cm the first year; 15.2 cm the second year, 22.9 cm the third
year, 30.5 cm the fourth year, and 33 cm the fifth year. Brook trout generally do not exceed a length of 54 cm and a
weight of 1.5 kg (Trautman, 1981). However, Scott and Grossman (1973) reported a brook trout as large as 6.6 kg.
Rumors of larger brook trout have been circulated, but none have been verified. Brook trout may overpopulate
small streams, resulting in large numbers of small trout less than 25.4 cm long. Wild brook trout seldom live longer
than five years, and rarely live more than eight years.
2.4 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
2.4.1 The sides of large young and adult brook trout are dark olive, sprinkled with light spots and red spots
outlined with purplish or blue hue. Some forms have red spots with light brown margins. The scales are cycloid,
small, in about 215 to 250 rows at the lateral line. The top of the head and back is dark olive and heavily
vermiculated. There are no black or brown spots on the head, back, adipose, or caudal fin. The anterior rays of the
pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins are milk-white, bordered posteriorly with a dusky hue and the remainder of the fins
yellowish or reddish.
2.4.2 The back of young or immature brook trout is olive, the sides are lighter and more silvery, and the belly is
whitish. There are between 8-12 rectangular parr marks on the sides, also a few yellow and blue spots, but no black
spots.
2.4.3 The dorsal fin has 10 rays, and the anal fin has 9 rays. The belly of breeding males is red, and some males
may develop a hook (or kype) at the front of the lower jaw. The tail or caudal fin is slightly notched in the young
but is generally square in older brook trout.
3 HOLDING AND ACCLIMATION PROCEDURES FOR TROUT STOCKS
3.1 SOURCES OF ORGANISMS
3.1.1 Trout fry are obtained from commercial hatcheries during March through July. However, if trout are needed
for toxicity testing, it is advisable to contact the hatchery for its trout hatching and rearing schedule. If trout must be
ordered from out-of-state, the State Fish and Game Agency should be contacted concerning regulations on fish
importation. The recommended age for test organisms is approximately 15-30 days (after yolk sac absorption to 30
days) for rainbow trout and 30-60 days for brook trout. Trout are purchased 36 to 48 h prior to their use as testing
organisms, but they must have time to stabilize over the acclimation period. Trout should appear disease-free and
unstressed, with fewer than 5% of the animals dying during the 24-48 hours preceding use in a toxicity test.
3.1.2 Trout fry are usually transported in plastic bags of at least 4-mil plastic or thicker in shipping containers. The
bags are partially filled with water saturated with oxygen. During warm weather the shipping containers are cooled
with ice or cold packs to prevent temperature increases which will result in the loss of fish. Trout should be
acclimated gradually from the temperature of the transportation unit to that of holding environment. Upon arrival at
the destination the plastic bags should be allowed to float unopened in the holding tank for about 30 minutes to
acclimate the fish.
3.2 HOLDING CONDITIONS
3.2.1 Trout are held in 200 L (50 gal) or larger tanks supplied with a flow-through water system, or with
recirculated water and a biological filtration system. The holding water should be moderately hard and free of
chlorine, have low concentrations of metals, and should have a pH between 6 and 9. Provide a daily photoperiod of
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16 hours light, 8 hours darkness with an illumination at 10-20 uE/m2/s (50-100 ft-c, or ambient laboratory levels).
A 15 min dimmer timer should be used to gradually increase or decrease the illumination when lights are turned on
or off. The gradual increase and decrease of illumination at the beginning and ending of the photoperiod is
important because trout tend to jump when startled by a sudden change in light intensity. Holding water
temperature is maintained at 12 °C ±2°C and is aerated as close as possible to saturation. Measurements of
temperature, DO, pH, conductivity, and ammonia are made on holding water daily.
3.3 FEEDING
3.3.1 Trout are fed fine texture trout chow. The fry in the holding tank are fed (ad libitum) up to 24 hours before
the start of the acute toxicity test. Dead or moribund fish should be removed from the holding tanks every day.
Excess food and feces are vacuum-siphoned off the bottom of the tank daily.
3.3.2 Daily records should be maintained for organism survival, health, and acclimation conditions.
4 TEST ORGANISMS
4.1 Rainbow trout fry 15-30 days old, and Brook trout 30-60 days old, are used in acute tests (see summary tables
of test conditions in Section 9, Acute Toxicity Test Procedures). The fry in the holding tank are not fed for 24 hours
prior to the start of the test. The fry are caught carefully with a fine mesh net and placed gently in the 5 L (4 L test
solution volume) test chambers, until 10 fish are reached per test chamber. Larger test chambers or 5 fish/chambers
may be necessary if DO or pH problems are encountered. Placement of the test chambers is random.
4.2 After the fish are introduced, the behavior should be noted and recorded throughout the test period. At the
beginning and ending of the photoperiod, during the test, the light intensity should be raised and lowered gradually
over a 15 min period using a dimmer switch or suitable device. Between observations the test vessels are covered to
act as a dust barrier and to prevent fish from jumping out.
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SELECTED REFERENCES
American Fisheries Society. 1980. A list of common and scientific names of fishes from the United States and
Canada. Special Publication No. 12. Amer. Fish. Soc., Bethesda, MD.
Bailey, R.M and Robins, C.R. 1989. Changes in North American fish names, especially as related to the
International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, 1985. Bull. Zool. Nomencl. 45(2):92-103.
Eddy, S. and Hodson, A.C. 1970. Taxonomic keys to the common animals of the north central states. Burgess
Publ. Co., Minneapolis, MN.
Eddy, S. and Underbill, J.C. 1974. Northern fishes. Univ. Minnesota Press, Minneapolis, MN.
Hubbs, C.L. and Lagler, K.F. 1967. Fishes of the Great Lakes Region. Univ. Michigan Press, Ann Arbor, MI.
Lagler, K.F. 1956. Freshwater Fishery Biology. Wm. C. Brown Co., Publ., Dubuque, IA.
Lee, D.S., Gilbert, C.R., Hocutt, C.H., Jenkins, R.E., McAllistger, D.E., and Stauffer, R., Jr. 1980. Atlas of North
American freshwater fishes. Publ. 1980-12, North Carolina State Museum Nat. Hist., Raleigh, NC.
Leitritz, E. and Lewis, R.C. 1976. Trout and salmon culture (Hatchery methods). California Dept. Fish and Game,
Fish Bulletin 164. Sacramento, CA.
National Academy of Sciences. 1974. Fishes - Guidelines for the breeding, care, and management of laboratory
animals. Printing and Publishing Office, National Academy of Sciences, Washington, D.C.
Piper, R.G., McElwain, I.E., Orme, L.E., McCraren, J.P., Fowler, L.G., and Leonard, J.R. 1982. Fish hatchery
management. U.S. Dept. Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C.
Scott, W.B. and Grossman, E.J. 1973. Freshwater fishes of Canada. Fisheries Research Board of Canada, Ottawa,
Canada.
Smith, G.R. and Stearly, R.F. 1989. The classification and scientific names of rainbow and cutthroat trouts.
Fisheries 14(1):4-10.
Trautman, M.B. 1981. The fishes of Ohio. Ohio State Univ. Press and Ohio Sea Grant Program, Center Lakes Erie
Area Research, Columbus, OH.
Willers, B. 1991. Trout Biology: A natural history of trout and salmon. Lyons and Burfoud, 31 West 21 Street,
New York, NY. 10010.
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APPENDIX A
DISTRIBUTION, LIFE CYCLE, TAXONOMY, AND CULTURE METHODS
A.7 SHEEPSHEAD MINNOW (CYPRINODON VARIEGATUS)
I. MORPHOLOGY AND TAXONOMY
1.1 The sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus) belongs to the family Cyprinodonitidae (killifishes), which
includes 45 genera and 300 species worldwide, occurring on all continents except Australia. Most species are
freshwater, but some occur in brackish and coastal marine waters. There are thirteen species in the Genus
Cyprinodon in the United States (American Fisheries Society, 1980). The sheepshead minnow is the only marine
species, and is widely distributed in the coastal waters of the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.
1.2 Adult sheepshead minnows (see Hardy, 1978, for a complete description) can attain a total length of 93 mm,
but the average standard length report for adults is 35-50 mm. The males are usually somewhat longer than
females. The fish have the following morphological characteristics: lack a lateral line; have 24-29 lateral scale
rows; have a large elongate humeral scale just above the pectoral base; the dorsal fin has nine to 13 rays; the anal fin
has nine to 12 rays; the caudal fin has 14-16 principal rays and a total of 28-29 rays; the pectoral fin has 14-17 rays,
and the ventral fin has five to seven rays.
1.3 The body of males is short, compressed, and deep. The depth increases with age. The upper profile is evenly
elevated. The males are olivaceous above with a lustrous steel blue or bluish green area on the back from nape to
dorsal or beyond, and have a series of poorly defined dark bars on the sides and a belly that is yellowish white to
deep orange. The dorsal fin ocellus on posterior rays is lacking or developed as faint dusky spot.
1.4 The females are light olive, brown, brassy, or light orange above with 14 dark crossbars on the lower sides
alternating with seven to eight crossbars on the back. The lower sides and belly are yellowish or white. The dorsal
fin is olive or dusky and has one or two prominent ocelli on the posterior rays.
2 LIFE HISTORY
2.1 DISTRIBUTION AND GENERAL ECOLOGY
2.1.1 Sheepshead minnows occur in estuaries along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts (Figure 1). They are a schooling,
euryhaline species that inhabit a variety of shallow water habitats, such as coves, bays, ponds, inlets, harbors,
bayous, salt marshes, and along open beaches. In some cases, they may be very abundant where the bottom is
partially sandy, emergent vegetation lacking, and little current or wave action are present. This species may
establish populations in inland lakes containing relatively high concentrations of dissolved salts. They are tolerant
of extreme changes in water temperatures, ranging from 0-40 ° C, and in salinities, ranging from 0. l-149%o (Simpson
and Grunter, 1956; Nordlie, 1987).
2.1.2 This omnivorous fish is an important component of the estuarine ecosystem serving as a link in transferring
energy from lower trophic levels, detritus and benthic plants and animals, to carnivores in higher trophic levels
(Hansen and Parrish, 1977). Sheepshead minnows serve as forage fish for commercially and recreationally valued
fish species, such as the black drum (Pogonias cromis), red drum (Sciaenops ocellata), bluefish (Pomatomus
saltatrix), spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus), striped bass (Morone saxatilis), and snook (Centropomus
undecimalis) (Gunter, 1945; Darnell, 1958; Grant, 1962; Sekavec, 1974, and Carter et al., 1973).
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..i5*
Figure 1. Map showing the distribution of the sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon
variegatus) in North America. Open circles represent transplanted
populations (From Lee et al., 1980).
2.2 GENERAL SPAWNING BEHAVIOR
2.2.1 Sheepshead minnows (Figures 2, 3, 4) spawn at depths of 2.5-60 cm in shallow bays, tide pools, mangrove
lagoons, and pools in shallow, gently flowing streams, and other similar habitats over bottoms of sand, black silt, or
mud. Males occupy territories up to 0.3-0.6 m in diameter and may or may not construct nest pits. Spawning may
take place out of both pit and territory. Besides temperature, Martin (1972) reported that sudden changes in salinity
can initiates spawning activities. Eggs (Figure 2) are demersal, adhesive or semi-adhesive with very minute
attachment filaments (threads) more or less evenly distributed over the chorion. They stick to a variety of
substrates, such as plants, sand, rocks, logs, and to each other. Sometimes they stick to plants near the surface, and
at other times become partially buried in the bottom. The yolk contains one very large and many minute oil
globules. Adults spawn possibly throughout the year on the Gulf coast of the United States. Hansen and Parrish
(1977) reported that in an estuary near Pensacola, Florida, spawning may occur during any month of the year. Ripe
females are found April to October in North Carolina, throughout the summer in the Chesapeake Bay, May to
August in Delaware Bay, May to September in New Jersey and New York, and June to mid-July in Massachusetts.
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Figure 2. Sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus). A. unfertilized egg; B.
bUstodisc stage; C-D. 8-cell stage; E. 16-cell stage; F, late
cleavage; G. germ ring formed; H. blastoderm over 1/4 of yolk; I.
early embryo; J. embryo 48-hours old; K. tail-free embryo. (From
Kuntz, 1916).
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B
4.0mm
G
12.0mm
Figure 3. Sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus). A-E. yolk-sac larvae; F,
larvae; G. juvenile; (B-C, E-G, from Kuntz, 1916; A, D, from Foster,
1974).
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Slza Unknown
B
Size Unknown
Figure 4. Sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus). A. juvenile; B. adult
(From Jordan and Evermann, 1896-1900).
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3 CULTURE METHODS AND FACILITIES
3.1 SOURCES OF ORGANISMS
3.1.1 Juvenile and adult sheepshead minnows (Figure 4) for use as brood stock spawners may be obtained from
commercial biological supply houses or taken by seine in coastal estuaries of the Atlantic coast and Gulf of Mexico.
They may also be obtained from young fish raised to maturity in the laboratory. Feral brood stock and first
generation laboratory fish may be preferred, to minimize inbreeding. A continuous supply of wild stock, however,
may be more cost effective. Neither fish nor eggs of feral stock should contain excessive contaminants nor exhibit
excessive mortality, and the fish should demonstrate normal behavior. Before being used as a source of gametes,
field-caught adults should be maintained and observed in the laboratory for at least one week to permit detection of
disease and to allow time for acute mortality resulting from stress of capture. Injured or diseased fish should be
discarded.
3.2 LABORATORY CULTURE FACILITIES
3.2.1 Sheepshead minnows can be cultured in a static, recirculated, or flow-through systems. Flow-through
systems require large volumes of water and may not be feasible in some laboratories.
3.3 LABORATORY YEAR-ROUND SPAWNING
3.3.1 In the laboratory, adults may be kept in breeding condition year round. Females may spawn a number of
times at intervals of one to seven days, and will generally produce an average of 10 to 30 eggs per spawning
(USEPA, 1978a). To obtain large number of eggs at one particular time, adult fish of 27 mm standard length or
greater should be used. If fish are taken in the field, they should be acclimated for at least one to two weeks in
20-30%o salinity, a water temperature of 25-28 ° C, and a photoperiod of 16 h light and 8 h dark.
3.3.2 Sheepshead minnows can be continuously cultured in the laboratory from eggs to adults. The eggs
(embryos), larvae, juveniles, and adults (Figures 2, 3, 4) should be kept in rearing and holding tanks of appropriate
size and maintained at ambient laboratory temperature. The larvae should be fed sufficient newly-hatched Artemia
nauplii daily to assure that live nauplii are always present. At the juvenile stage, they are fed frozen adult brine
shrimp and a commercial flake food. Adult fish are fed flake food two or three times daily, supplemented with
frozen adult brine shrimp.
3.3.3 Sheepshead minnows normally reach sexual maturity three to five months after hatching, and have an
average standard length of approximately 27 mm for females and 34 mm for males, if held at a temperature of
25-30 ° C in rearing tanks of adequate size, and fed adequately. At this time, the males begin to exhibit sexual
dimorphism and initiate territorial behavior. When the fish reach sexual maturity, and are to be used to obtain large
number of embryos by natural spawning, the brood stock should be kept in a temperature controlled system at
18-20°C. To initiate spawning, the spawners are moved to spawning tanks with a temperature of 25 °C. Adults can
be maintained in natural or artificial seawater in a flow-through, static, or recirculating, aerated system consisting of
an all-glass aquarium, or equivalent (see USEPA, 1985 and USEPA, 1987).
3.3.4 Static systems are equipped with an undergravel filter. Recirculating systems are equipped with an outside
biological filter constructed in the laboratory using a reservoir system of crushed coral, crushed oyster shells, or
dolomite and gravel, charcoal, floss, (see Spotte, 1973; 1979, Bower, 1983 for information on filters and
conditioning the biological filter), or a commercially available cartridge filter or an equivalent system. The culture
conditions should include seawater at 20-30%o, and a photoperiod of 16 h light and 8 h dark. Water temperature
may be controlled or maintained at ambient laboratory levels.
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3.4 OBTAINING EGGS (EMBRYOS) FOR TOXICITY TESTS
3.4.1 Embryos can be shipped to the laboratory from an outside source or obtained from adults held in the
laboratory. Ripe eggs can be obtained either by natural spawning or by intraperitoneal injection of the females with
human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) hormone. If the culturing system for adults is temperature controlled,
natural spawning can be induced to obtain large number of embryos by raising the temperature to 25 ° C. Natural
spawning is preferred because repeated spawning can be obtained from the same brood stock, whereas with
hormone injection, the brood stock is sacrificed in obtaining gametes. It should be emphasized that the injection and
hatching schedules given below are to be used only as guidelines. Response to the hormone varies with brood stock
and temperature. Time-to-hatch and percent hatch also vary among stocks and among batches of embryos obtained
from the same stock, and are dependent on temperature, DO, and salinity.
3.5 NATURAL SPAWNING
3.5.1 Adult fish should be maintained at 18-20°C in a temperature controlled system. The number of spawning
chambers and fish to be spawned should be based on the requirements for providing sufficient numbers of viable
embryos. As indicated above, an adult female in spawning condition will generally produce an average 10 to 30
eggs per spawn. To obtain embryos for a test, adult fish (generally, at least eight-to-ten females and three males)
are transferred to a spawning chamber in a 57 L (15 gal) aquarium with the correct photoperiod and temperature (16
h light/8 h dark, and a temperature of 25 ° C), seven to eight days before the larval fish are needed. The spawning
tank is fitted with a spawning chamber and an embryo collection tray. The spawning chamber consists of a basket
of 3-5 mm NITEX® mesh, approximately 20 x 35 x 22 cm high (USEPA, 1978a), designed to fit into the aquarium.
Spawning generally will begin within 24 h or less. The embryos will fall through the bottom of the spawning
chamber and lightly adhere onto a collecting screen or tray placed on the bottom of the tank. The collecting tray
should be checked for embryos the next morning. The number of eggs produced is highly variable. The number of
spawning units required to provide the fish needed to perform a toxicity test (generally two to four) as determined
by experience. If the collecting trays do not contain sufficient embryos after the first 24 h, discard the embryos,
replace the tray, and collect the embryos for another 24 h. To help keep the embryos clean, the adults are fed while
the screens are removed. Spawning fish should be shielded from excessive outside disturbance, e.g. an opaque
curtain should surround the entire culture system. Care should also be taken so that outside light sources do not
interfere with the photoperiod.
3.5.2 The embryos are collected in a tray placed on the bottom of the tank. The collecting trays are fabricated from
plastic fluorescent light fixture diffusors (grids), with cells approximately 14 mm deep x 14 mm square. A screen
consisting of 250-500 um mesh is attached to one side (bottom) of the grid with silicone adhesive. The depth and
small size of the grid protects the embryos from predation by the adult fish. The collecting trays with
newly-spawned embryos are removed from the spawning tank, and the embryos are collected from the screens by
washing them with a wash bottle or removing them gently with a fine brush. The embryos from several spawning
units are generally pooled in a single container to provide a sufficient number to conduct the test(s). The embryos
are transferred to a petri dish, or equivalent, filled with fresh culture water, and are examined using a dissecting
microscope or other suitable magnifying device. Damaged and infertile eggs are discarded (see Figure 2). The
embryos are then placed in incubation dishes (e.g. KIMAX® or PYREX® crystallizing dishes, Carolina culture
dishes, or equivalent; see Subsection 3.8, Embryo Incubation and Hatching Facility). It is recommended that the
embryos be obtained from fish cultured inhouse, rather than from outside sources, to eliminate the uncertainty of
damage caused by shipping and handling that may not be observable, but which might affect the results of the test.
After sufficient number embryos are collected for the test, the adult fish are returned to the (18-20°C) culture
holding tanks.
3.6 SUSTAINED NATURAL EMBRYO PRODUCTION
3.6.1 Sustained (long-term), daily, embryo production can be achieved by maintaining mature fish (ratio of
approximately 12-15 males to 50-60 females) in tanks, such as a 285-L LIVING STREAM® tank, or equivalent, at a
temperature of 23 -25 ° C. Embryos are collected seven or eight days prior to starting the acute or chronic toxicity
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tests for less than 24 hr or older larvae. Embryos are produced daily, and when needed, collecting trays are placed
on the bottom of the tank. The next morning, the embryo collectors are removed, and the embryos are washed into
a shallow glass culture dish using artificial seawater. Four collecting trays, each approximately 20 cm x 45 cm, will
cover the bottom of a 285 L tank.
3.7 FORCED SPAWNING
3.7.1 Human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) is reconstituted with sterile saline or Ringer's solution immediately
before use. The standard HCG vial contains 1,000 IU, which is reconstituted in 10 mL of saline. Freeze-dried
HCG, which comes with premeasured and sterilized saline, is the easiest to use. The reconstituted HCG may be
used for several weeks if kept in the refrigerator.
3.7.2 Each female is injected with HCG on two consecutive days. The HCG is injected into the peritoneal cavity,
just below the skin, using the smallest needle possible. A 50 IU dose (0.5 mL of reconstituted hormone solution) is
recommended for females approximately 27 mm in standard length. A larger or smaller dose may be used for fish
which are significantly larger or smaller than 27 mm. It may be helpful if fish that are to be injected are maintained
at 20°C before injection, and the temperature raised to 25°C on the day of the first injection. Injected females
should be isolated from males.
3.7.3 With injections made on days one and two, females which are held at 25°C should be ready for stripping on
Days 4, 5, or 6. Ripe females should show pronounced abdominal swelling, and release at least a few eggs in
response to a gentle squeeze. Eggs are stripped from the ripe females and mixed with sperm derived from excised,
macerated testes. At least ten females and five males are used per test to ensure that there is a sufficient number of
viable embryos.
3.7.4 Prepare the testes immediately before stripping the eggs from the females. Remove the testes from
three-to-five males. The testes are paired, dark-grey organs along the dorsal midline of the abdominal cavity. If the
head of the male is cut off and pulled away from the rest of the fish, most of the internal organs can be pulled out of
the body cavity, leaving the testes behind. The testes are placed in a few mL of seawater until the eggs are ready.
3.7.5 Strip the eggs from the females into a dish containing 50-100 mL of seawater, by firmly squeezing the
abdomen. Sacrifice the females and remove the ovaries if all the ripe eggs do not flow out freely. Break up any
clumps of ripe eggs and remove clumps of ovarian tissue and under-ripe eggs. Ripe eggs are spherical,
approximately 1.0-1.7 mm in diameter, and almost clear. Place the testes in a fold of NITEX® screen (250-500 um
mesh), dampen with seawater, and macerate while holding over the dish containing the eggs. Rinse the testes with
seawater to remove the sperm from the tissue, and wash the remaining sperm and testes into the dish with the eggs.
Let the eggs and sperm stand together for 10-15 minutes, swirling occasionally.
3.7.6 Pour the contents of the dish into a crystallizing dish or equivalent and insert an airstone. Aerate gently, so
that the water moves slowly over the eggs, and incubate at 25 ° C for 60-90 min. After this period of time, wash the
fertilized eggs on a NITEX® screen, place them in clean seawater in an incubation chamber.
3.8 EMBRYO INCUBATION AND HATCHING FACILITY
3.8.1 Embryos are incubated in KIMAX® or PYREX® crystallizing dishes, Carolina culture dishes, or equivalent,
at a temperature of 25 °C and 14-h light/10-h dark photoperiod. An air stone is placed in each dish, and the contents
are gently aerated for the duration of the incubation. The water in the incubation chambers is replaced daily.
Approximately 24 h prior to hatching, the salinity of the seawater in the incubation chambers is changed to that of
the test salinity, if different. The salinity must remain within the 20-30%o range. The embryos should hatch in 6 to
7 days at 25 °C, and in 4 to 5 days at 30°C.
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3.9 FEEDING AND STOCKING DENSITY
3.9.1 The sheepshead minnow cultures should be provided a sufficient amount of high quality nutrition without
over-feeding. The adult and juvenile sheepshead minnows are fed, frozen adult brine shrimp and flake food,
ad libitum, daily. The larvae are fed newly hatched Artemia nauplii and crushed flake food, ad libitum, daily.
Methods for culturing brine shrimp are discussed in Appendix A.4. The stocking of adult fish in the holding tanks
depends on the biological filter system (see Subsection 3.11, Biological Filters and Substrate Conditioning). A
circular, 1.3 m (48 in.) diameter, 880 L (235 gal), fiberglass tank will hold approximately 30-50 adult fish with a
varied sex ratio. A stocking density of about 300 larvae is suitable in a 76 L aquarium. Brood stock should be
replaced with feral fish annually, or whenever the fecundity of the females diminishes, and they appear spent with
age and from frequent breeding.
3.10 CULTURE TANKS
3.10.1 Larvae, juvenile, and adult fish should be kept in holding and rearing tanks of appropriate size. The tanks
can be all-glass aquaria, fiberglass tanks, or equivalent. All tanks should have appropriate biological filtration
systems, and the culture filtration system should be conditioned properly before adding the fish (see Spotte, 1973,
1979; Bower, 1983).
3.11 BIOLOGICAL FILTERS AND SUB STRATE CONDITIONING
3.11.1 Holding and rearing aquaria and tanks can accommodate as many fish as its biological filter will permit.
The substrate conditioning for the undergravel or outside filters is also important to the life and health of the fish.
Substrate conditioning is the process to develop nitrifying bacteria (Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter) that can convert
ammonia and nitrite to nitrate. A conditioned filter bed is defined as one in which the capacity for ammonia and
nitrite oxidation is sufficient to keep pace with the production of ammonia by the fish. Consult Spotte (1973; 1979)
or Bower (1983) for a thorough understanding of the biological filter and conditioning process.
3.12 CULTURE WATER
3.12.1 Artificial seawater is prepared by dissolving FORTY-FATHOMS* or equivalent artificial sea salts in
deionized water to a salinity of 20-30%o. Synthetic sea salts are packaged in plastic bags and mixed with deionized
(MILLI-Q® or equivalent) water. The instructions on the package of sea salts should be followed carefully, and the
salts should be mixed in a separate container, and not in the culture tank. The deionized water used in hydration
should be in the temperature range of 21 -26 ° C. Seawater made from artificial sea salts is conditioned (see Spotte,
1973, 1979; Bower, 1983) before it is used for culturing by aerating mildly for at least 24 h.
3.12.2 Adequate aeration will bring the pH and concentration of dissolved oxygen and other gases into
equilibrium. The concentration of dissolved oxygen in the water supply should be 90-100% saturation before it is
used. If a residue or precipitate is present, the solution should be filtered before use. The seawater should be
monitored periodically to insure a constant salinity.
3.13 CULTURE CONDITIONS
3.13.1 Holding and rearing tanks and any area used for manipulating live sheepshead minnows should be located
in a room or space separated from that in which toxicity test(s) are to be conducted. The salinity of the culture
systems should be between 20 and 30%o. Water temperature for the brood stock should be maintained at 18-20°C.
A photoperiod of 14 h illumination (10-20 uE/m2/s, or 50-100 ft-c) and 10 h dark, should be provided. The holding
and rearing tanks should be aerated so that the DO is not less than 1.0 ppm below saturation at any given
temperature, with 5.0 ppm (60% saturation) being the absolute lowest limit.
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3.14 CULTURE MAINTENANCE
3.14.1 Replace approximately 10% of the culture water every two weeks, or 25% monthly. The culture water
should be clear. If the water appears cloudy or discolored, replace at least 50% of it. Replacement water should be
well oxygenated and at the same temperature and salinity as the culture water. Salinity is maintained at the proper
level by adding deionized water to compensate for evaporation. A replenisher, made of the trace elements, iodine
(KI) and bromine (KBr), is added (1 mL/400 L) to the culture water each week, or commercial trace elements
replenisher should be used as directed by the artificial sea salt manufacturer.
3.14.2 To avoid excessive build up of algal growth, periodically scrape the walls of culture system. Some of the
algae will serve as a supplement to the diet of the fish. A partial activated carbon "charcoal" change in the filtration
systems should be done monthly or as needed. The detritus (dead brine shrimp nauplii and cysts, adult brine
shrimp, other organic material accumulation) should be siphoned from the bottom of rearing and holding aquaria or
tanks each week or as needed.
3.15 WATER QUALITY MONITORING
3.15.1 Checking the chemistry of the sea water is critical to the success of the marine culture system. The water
quality will determine whether the life support processes in the filter bed work at reasonable and steady rates. The
culture water is checked routinely for temperature, alkalinity, pH, DO, total ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. More
frequent monitoring of these parameters is recommended during periods of organism procurement and starting new
culture systems with inside underground filters and outside-of-tank biological filtration. The DO should be
maintained at greater than 60% saturation. The pH should not go below 7.5 with an acceptable range between 7.5
and 8.3. Low pH levels can result from overcrowding, overfeeding, or waste accumulation, especially in static or
recirculating culture systems.
3.15.2 Acceptable pH levels can be re-established by siphoning off 50-75% of the water and replacing it with
conditioned artificial seawater of the same temperature. Also, sodium bicarbonate or commercially available liquid
buffers can be added to the tanks whenever the pH falls below 7.5. Un-ionized ammonia, total (NH3 + NH4), and
nitrite ion (NO2) levels should not exceed 0.1 ppm in the holding tanks. It is recommended that the ammonia and
nitrite concentrations be determined prior to starting new culture systems. It is recommended that nitrate (NO3)
concentrations be determined prior to starting new culture systems, and the nitrate ion concentrations should not
exceed 20 mg/L.
3.15.3 A specific schedule for water quality monitoring should be established for each culture system. All water
quality measurements and data are recorded in the culture and environmental conditions log books.
3.16 DISEASE CONTROL AND TREATMENT
3.16.1 Discussions of identification and treatment of common parasites of marine fish culturing can be found in
Spotte (1973), Sindermann (1970), and Bower (1983). Several commercial companies sell various kinds of
medication to treat common parasites of marine fish.
3.16.2 A colorless medication, FORMALITEII®, has been used successfully for the treatment of the protozoan
parasites, Chilodonella, Costia, Trichoina, Scyphidia, Trichophrya, and Ichyophirius.
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4 TEST ORGANISMS
4.1 Sheepshead minnows 1-14 days old are used in the acute toxicity test. If the larvae are used one or two days
after hatching, they can be held in the crystallizing or culture dishes. If they are to be used later, they should be
placed in larger holding aquarium or tanks. Prior to beginning the test, the larvae can be transferred to small
beakers or plastic cups, using a large-bore, fire-polished glass tube (6 mm to 9 mm I.D. x 30 cm long) equipped
with a rubber bulb.
4.2 If the larvae are to be moved to holding aquaria, a large-bore, fire-polished glass tube should also be used to
move them. It is important to note that larvae and fry should not be handled with a dip net. Dipping larvae and fry
with a net can result in very high mortality. Some of the water in the holding aquarium or tank containing the larvae
should be siphoned off before they are transferred using the large-bore tube. This should make them easier to catch.
The same large-bore, fire-polished glass tube discussed above should be used to gently transfer the fish from the
holding vessels to the test vessels. As the fish are counted, they can be transferred to small plastic cups before they
are added to the test vessels. It is more convenient to first transfer five fish to each of several small beakers or
plastic containers with a few mL of 20-30%o saline dilution water. The appropriate number of fish (multiples of
five) can then be added to the test vessels.
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Andreasen, J.K. and Spears, R.W. 1983. Toxicity of Texan petroleum well brine to the sheepshead minnow
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1973. Ecosystems analysis of the Big Cypress Swamp and estuaries. Surveillance and Analysis Division and
South Florida Ecological Study, Region IV, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Atlanta, GA. EPA 904/9-
74/002.
Clark, J.R., Borthwick, P.W., Goodman, L.R., Patrick, J.M., Jr., Lores, E.M., and Moore, J.C. 1987. Effects of
aerial thermal fog applications of Fenthion on caged pink shrimp, mysids, and sheepshead minnows.
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Darnell, R.M. 1958. Food habits of fishes and larger invertebrates of Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana, an estuarine
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Drummond, R.A. and Dawson, W.F. 1970. An inexpensive method for simulating diel patterns of lighting in the
laboratory. Trans Amer. Fish. Soc. 99(2):434-435.
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early developmental stages of fishes of the Potomac River Estuary. Power Plant Siting Program, Md. Dep. Nat.
Resour. PPSP-MP-13, pp. 127-142.
Grant, G.S. 1962. Predationof bluefish on young Atlantic menhaden in Indian River, Delaware. Chesapeake Sci.
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in two estuarine fishes. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 6:113-119.
Hansen, D.J., Schimmel, S.C., and Forester, J. 1974. Aroclor® 1254 in eggs of sheepshead minnows (Cyprinodon
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Assoc. Game Fish Comm. Oct. 1973. Hot Springs, AR. pp. 420-426.
Hansen, D.J. and Parrish, P.R. 1977. Suitability of sheepshead minnows (Cyprinodon variegatus) for life-cycle
toxicity tests. Aquatic Toxicology and Hazard Evaluation. ASTM STP 634. FL. Mayer and JL. Hamelink,
Eds. American Society of Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, PA. pp. 117-126.
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Hansen, D.J., Schimmel, S.C., and Forrester, J. 1977. Endrin: Effects on the entire life-cycle of a salt water fish.
J. Toxicol. Environ. Health. 3:721-733.
Hardy, J.D. 1978. Development of fishes of the Mid-Atlantic Bight. An atlas of egg, larval, and juvenile stages.
Vol. II. Anguillidae through Syngnathidae. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Dept. Interior, FWS/OBS-78/12,
pp. 141-151.
Holland, H.T. and Coppage, D.L. 1970. Sensitivity to pesticides in three generations of sheepshead minnows.
Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 5(1): 362-367.
Hollister, T.A., Heitmuller, P.T., Parrish, P.R., and Dyar, E.E. 1980. Studies to determine relationships between
time and toxicity of an acidic effluent and an alkaline effluent to two estuarine species. In: Easton, J.G.,
P.R. Parrish, and A.C. Hendricks, eds., Aquatic toxicology and hazard assessment, ASTM STP 707, American
Society for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, PA. pp. 251-265.
Jordan, D.S. and Evermann, B.W. 1896-1900. The fishes of North and Middle America. A description catalogue
of the species of fishlike vertebrates found in the waters of North America, north of the isthmus of Panama.
U.S. Natl. Museum Bull. 47 (in 4 parts). 3313 pp., 92 pis.
Kilby, J.D. 1955. The fishes of two Gulf coastal marsh areas of Florida. Tulane Stud. Zool. 2(8): 175-247. Kuntz,
A. 1916. Notes on the embryology and larval development of five species of teleostean fishes. Bull. U.S. Bur.
Fish. 34(831):409-429.
Kutz. A. 1916. Notes on the embryology and larval development of five species of teleostean fishes. Bull. U.S.
Bur. Fish. 34(831):409-429.
Lee, D.S., Gilbert, C.R., Hocutt, C.H., Jenkins, R.E., McAllister, D.E., and Stautter, R., Jr. 1980. Atlas of North
American freshwater fishes. Publ. 1980-12, North Carolina State Museum Natural History, Raleigh, NC.
Martin, F.D. 1972. Factors influencing local distribution of Cyprinodonvariegatus (Pisces: Cyprinodontidae).
Trans. Am. Fish. Soc. 101(l):89-93.
Martin, B.J. 1980. Effects of petroleum compounds on estuarine fishes. Govt. Reports Announcements & Index
(GRA&I), Issue 11.
Nordlie, F.G. 1987. Plasma osmotic Na+ and Cl" regulation under euryhaline conditions in Cyprinodon variegatus
Lacepede. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. A, 86A(1):57-61.
Perschbacker, P.W. and Strawn, K. 1986. Feeding selectivity and standing stocks of Fundulus grandis in an
artificial brackishwater pond, with comments on Cyprinodon variegatus. Contrib. Mar. Sci. 29: 103-111.
Sekavec. G. B. 1974. Summer Foods, length-weight relationship, and condition factor of juvenile ladyfish, Flops
saurus Linnaeus, from Louisiana Coastal Streams. Trans. Amer. Fish. Soc. 3: 472-476.
Schimmel, S.C. and Hansen, D.J. 1974. Effects of Aroclor® 1254 on the embryo and fry of sheepshead minnows.
Trans. Amer. Fish. Soc. 103(3):522-586.
Schimmel, S.C., Parrish, P.R., Hansen, D.J., Patrick, J.M., Jr., and Forester, J. 1975. Endrin: effects on several
estuarine organisms. Proc. 28th Ann. Conf. Southeast. Assoc. Game Fish. Comm. pp. 187-194.
Schimmel, S.C. and Hansen, D.J. 1975. Sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus): An estuarine fish suitable
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Schimmel, S.C., Hansen, D.J., and Forester, J. 1974. Effects of Aroclor® 1254 on the embryo and fry of
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marine organisms. Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection
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studies with the sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus). M.M. Hughes, M.A. Heber, S.C. Schimmel,
and W.J. Berry. Contribution No. 104. In: Schimmel, S.C., ed. Users guide to the conduct and interpretation
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atherinid fishes: the inland silverside, Menidia beryllina, Atlantic silverside, M. menidia, tidewater silverside,
M. peninsulae, and California grunion, Leuresthes tennis. D.P. Middaugh, M.J. Hemmer, and L.R. Goodman.
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report for training videotape. Office of Research and Development, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency,
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243-247.
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APPENDIX A
DISTRIBUTION, LIFE CYCLE, TAXONOMY, AND CULTURE METHODS
A.8 SILVERSIDES: INLAND SILVERSIDE (MENIDIA BERYLLINA)
ATLANTIC SILVERSIDE (M. MENIDIA), AND
TIDEWATER SILVERSIDE (M. PENINSULAE)
1 MORPHOLOGY AND TAXONOMY
1.1 Adult Atlantic silversides attain a total length of up to 117 mm (Figure 1A and IB). Females in general are
slightly larger than males. The first dorsal fin has three to seven, usually four or five spines. The second dorsal fin
has one spine and eight or nine rays; the anal fin has one spine and 19 to 29, usually 21 to 26, rays; and the pectoral
fin has 12 to 16, usually 14 or 15, rays (Robbins, 1969). Atlantic silverside embryos are easily distinguished from
those of the closely related inland silverside, Menidia beryllina. The former have a bundle of elastic filaments
attached to the chorion at one small area of insertion (Figure 1C and ID). These filaments, typically longer than the
diameter of the egg, are all the same diameter. In contrast, inland silverside eggs posses one or two thick, elongated
filaments, up to 50 mm long and four to nine shorter, thinner filaments (Figures IE and IF).
2 GENERAL LIFE HISTORY
2.1 DISTRIBUTION
2.1.1 Silversides occur in estuaries along the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts (Figures 2-4). The Atlantic
silverside, Menidia menidia, is a resident of estuaries from Maine to northern Florida. It occurs at intermediate to
high salinities, typically of 12 to 30 parts per thousand (ppt), and remains in Atlantic estuaries throughout most of
the year (De Sylva et al., 1962; Dahlberg, 1972). Recent evidence indicates an offshore migration at northern
latitudes in the fall and reappearance of adults in estuaries in late spring (Conover and Kynard, 1984). This species
is an important component in estuarine ecosystems, serving as forage fish for commercially and recreationally
valued species such as striped bass, bluefish and spotted seatrout (Merriman, 1941; Bayliff, 1950; Middaugh, 1981).
2.1.2 Although the culturing methods described in this section were written primarily for Menidia menidia, they
are also suitable for the inland silverside, M. beryllina, and the tidewater silverside, M. peninsulae (USEPA, 1987).
The staff of the Environmental Research Laboratory, Gulf Breeze, Florida, have developed procedures for
spawning, culturing, and testing of other fishes, including the California grunion, Leuresthes tennis, and the
topsmelt, Atherinops affmis. The availability of these fishes as test organisms will permit the use of indigenous fish
in toxicity tests of wastes discharged along the entire coast line of the contiguous United States and Alaska.
2.2 SPAWNING BEHAVIOR
2.2.1 The Atlantic silverside spawns during spring and summer. Spawning runs generally occur during April -
June or July at northern latitudes, and March through July or August at southern latitudes (Bayliff, 1950;
Hildebrand and Schroeder, 1928; Middaugh and Lempesis, 1976). Spawning occurs in the upper intertidal zone
during daytime high tides (Middaugh, 1981). Eggs are deposited on a variety of substrates which provide
protection from thermal stress and desiccation (Middaugh et al., 1981; Conover and Kynard, 1981). Females
typically release 200 to 800 eggs, 1.0-1.2 mm diameter, as they spawn. Individuals may spawn up to five or six
times, at two week intervals, during the reproductive season. The life span is generally 12-15 months, although year
class-2 fish are occasionally found (Beck, 1979).
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B
Figure 1, Silverside (Nenidia): A-D, W. menidia, (Atlantic Silverside}; A,
adult; ca. 95 mm SL (Massachusetts); B, adult, ca 102 mm SL
(Florida); C, unfertilized egg (diagrammatic); D. developing embryo
(note that filaments are all equal in diameter); E-F, M. beryllina
(inland Silverside); E, unfertilized egg (diagrammatic); F,
developing embryo (note one thick filament and several thin
filaments). (A, B from Kendall, 1902; C from Wang, 1974; D from
Ryder, 1883; E from Wang, 1974; F from Hildebrand, 1922.)
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B
Figure 2. Biographical Distribution: A, inland silverside, Henidia beryllina;
B, Atlantic silverside, M, menidia. (From USEPA, 1987).
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B
Figure 3. Biogeographical Distribution: A, tidewater silverside, Henidia
peninsulas; B, California gruriion, Leuresthes tenuis. (From
USEPA, 1987).
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Figure 4. Biogeographical Distribution: Topsmelt, Atherinops affinis.
(From USEPA, 1987).
3 CULTURING METHODS
3.1 SOURCES OF ORGANISMS
3.1.1 Menidia may be obtained from commercial biological supply houses or collected in the field.
3.1.1.1 The optimal time for collecting ripe M. menidia in the field is just prior to daytime high tides between 8:00
AM and Noon (usually one to four days after the occurrence of a new or full moon), when prespawning schools
move into the upper intertidal zone (Middaugh, 1981; Middaugh et al, 1981). Since the Atlantic silverside prefers
relatively high salinities, it is recommended that collections be made in areas with salinities of 20%o or greater.
Sandy beaches, bordering open but protected estuarine bays, are suitable for collecting adults. A 1 x 10 mbag seine
with knotless 5 mm mesh is ideal for collecting. Since Atlantic silversides typically reside in shallow water, 1.5m
deep, they are easily captured by seining close to shore. It is important to avoid total beaching of the bag seine
when collecting M. menidia. These fragile fish will quickly die if removed from water and, more importantly, ripe
females often abort their eggs if stranded. Ideally, the bag portion of the seine, containing captured adults, should
remain in water 5-15 cm deep (Middaugh and Lempesis, 1976).
3.1.1.2 It is possible to transport the spawn (fertilized eggs) or adults to the laboratory. The following procedure is
recommended for stripping, fertilizing and transporting eggs from the field to the laboratory:
1. Immediately after seining (while still on the beach) three to five ripe females should be dipped
into a bucket of seawater to remove sand and detritus.
2. Eggs are stripped into a glass culture dish containing seawater or onto a nylon screen
(0.45-1.0 mm mesh) (Figure 5), which is then gently lowered into a culture dish of seawater with
the eggs on the upper surface of the screen (Barkman and Beck, 1976). If excessive pressure is
228
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required to strip the eggs, the female should be discarded. Mature eggs, 1.0-1.2 mm in diameter,
are clear, and have an amber hue.
3. Milt from several males can then be stripped into the culture dish and mixed with the eggs by
gently tilting the dish from side to side. Upon contact with seawater, adhesive threads on mature
eggs uncoil, making enumeration and separation difficult. If eggs are stripped directly into the
culture dish, one end of a nylon string may be dipped into the dish and gently rolled so the
embryos adhere (Middaugh and Lempesis, 1976). The Barkman and Beck (1976) technique for
attaching the eggs to nylon screening minimizes the natural clumping tendency due to
entanglement of the filaments on M. menidia eggs.
4. Strings of embryos or embryos on screens may be transported to the laboratory by placing them in
an insulated glass container filled with seawater at the approximate temperature and salinity of
fertilization. If gravid fish are transported to the laboratory for subsequent spawning, care must
be taken to avoid overcrowding offish in transport containers. Continuous, vigorous aeration is
required and any increase in container water temperature should be minimized (Beck, 1979). A
mass culture system for incubating the screen-adhered eggs and collecting the hatched larvae in a
flowing seawater system (Figure 5) was described in detail by Beck (1979). A similar procedure
utilizing a recirculating system was described by Middaugh and Lempesis (1976).
3.2 Laboratory Year-round Spawning
3.2.1 Atlantic, inland, and tidewater silversides may be spawned in the laboratory on a year-round basis.
Procedures described by Middaugh and Takita (1983), and Middaugh and Hemmer (1984), provide for maintenance
of a brood stock of 30 to 50 fish, sex ratio 1:1, in 1.3 m diameter, circular holding tanks which are part of a
recirculating seawater system (Figure 6). The photoperiod should be adjusted to 14 L: 10 D (lights on at 5:00 AM
and off at 7:00 PM, intensity 10-20 uE/m2/s, or 50-100 ft c), with the water temperature maintained at 18-20°C for
fish from northern latitudes, and 20-25 ° C for southern latitudes. Suitable salinities for the culture units would be
25-30 ppt for the Atlantic and tidewater silversides, and 7%o for the inland silverside. Fish are fed 8 g Tetramin®
each morning and afternoon, and concentrated Artemia nauplii (hatch obtained from approximately 15 mL of eggs
after 48 h of incubation at 25°C) in mid-afternoon (see section onArtemia culture). Excess food should be
siphoned from the holding tanks weekly. Filter media (activated charcoal) located in a reservoir tray should be
changed weekly, immediately after cleaning the holding tanks. To induce spawning by the Atlantic silverside, the
circulation current velocity in the holding tanks should be reduced to zero (from 8 to 0 cm/sec) twice daily by
turning off the seawater circulation pump from midnight to 1:00 AM, and from Noon to 1:00 PM. Atlantic
silversides will spawn in response to interrupted current velocities during daytime (Noon to 1:00 PM). Spawning of
the tidewater silverside also is enhanced by reducing the current velocity twice daily, but spawns primarily during
nighttime. No interruption in current is necessary to enhance spawning by the inland silverside.
3.2.2 A suitable spawning substrate can be made by cutting enough 25 cm lengths of No. 18 nylon string to form a
small bundle, and tying a string around the middle of the bundle to form a "mop." The mop is suspended just below
the surface of the water, in contact with the side of the holding tanks. Spawning fish will deposit eggs on this
substrate. The mops are removed from the holding tanks daily and suspended in incubation vessels. Typical egg
production ranges from 300 to 1200 per spawn. Fish generally can be expected to spawn three to four days each
week.
3.2.3 It is essential that light-tight curtains surround the holding tanks. These curtains should remain closed except
during periodic feedings, tanks cleaning, and during removal and replacement of spawning substrates.
229
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HAND STRIPPING EGGS
HAND STRIPPING MALES
ONTO 500(1 NYLON SCREEN
IMMERSED IN SEA WATER
SPERM SUSPENSION
IN SEA WATER
FERTILIZED EGGS
ADHERED TO SCREEN
ADO SPERM SUSPENSION TO
TRAY CONTAINING EGGS
AERATION
FILTERED
SEA WATER (FSW)
15 MINUTES
HATCHED LARVAE
-. > W|i SCREENED
'' DISCHARGE
LARVAE HARVESTED
WITH NET WITH
PLASTIC FILM
BOTTOM
FOOD: BRINE,
SHRIMP, NAUPUI
TRANSFER TO
LARVAE
STANOPIPE- SCREENED
LARVAL REARING TANK
FILLED WITH SEA WATER-
CONTINUOUS FLOW
.SCREENED OUTFLOW
Figure 5. Techniques for collection of silverside eggs in the field, and
production of larvae in the laboratory (From Beck, 1979).
230
-------
Figure 6.
Holding and spawning system utilized In the culture of silversides
(Menidia), A, 1.3 m diameter tanks; B, circulation pump; C,
reservoir; D, seawater distribution system; E, by-pass line; F,
seawater return line; and G» reservoir filter system. (From
Middaugh and Hemmer, 1984).
3.2.4 Embryos attached to nylon screening or nylon string may be suspended in a culture system such as shown in
Figure 6. The culture chambers for embryos should be constructed of glass. Upon hatching, larvae may be
transferred from the collection container to a 90 cm diameter glass or fiberglass tank with a volume of 350 L. Tanks
receive a continuous flow of seawater at 2 L/min. Water is introduced at the tank periphery causing a gentle current
sufficient to induce orientation to water movement and normal schooling behavior. Water is discharged from the
tank by two automatic siphons. Siphon openings are protected by a 400 um nylon screen to prevent escape of
larvae. An inverted funnel is used at the siphon to decrease the velocity of discharge water, thus preventing
impingement of larvae.
231
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3.2.5 Embryos can also be incubated in small (4-10 L) glass aquaria, by placing the nylon screening or strings just
below the surface of the water. Gentle aeration should be provided by an airstone positioned near the bottom of the
holding aquaria.
3.3 CULTURE MEDIA
3.3.1 Use natural seawater if it is available and unpolluted. Otherwise use synthetic seawater prepared by adding
artificial marine salts, such as FORTY FATHOMS®, to deionized water. If synthetic seawater is used, it should be
aged for a least one week before being utilized in culture aquaria.
3.4 CULTURE CONDITIONS
3.4.1 The salinity maintained during incubation should be similar to that of the water from which the adults were
taken, if collected in the field, or at which the adults are being maintained in the laboratory, if the embryos
originate from laboratory brood stock. Water temperature should be maintained at 20 to 25 ° C depending upon the
latitude where fish are collected. Provide a photoperiod of 12-14 h of illumination daily at 10-20 uE/m2/s, or
50-100 ft-c (12 h minimum light/24 h). Embryos will hatch in seven to 14 days, depending upon the incubation
temperature and salinity (Middaugh and Lempesis, 1976).
3.5 FEEDING AND STOCKING DENSITY
3.5.1 Upon hatching, Menidia larvae should be fed immediately. Newly hatched brine shrimp (Artemia) nauplii
(less than eight hours old) are fed to the larvae twice daily. It is essential to feedM. menidia andM. peninsulae
larvae newly-hatched brine shrimp nauplii (USEPA, 1987). Utilization of older, larger, brine shrimp nauplii will
result in starvation of the larvae since they are unable to ingest the larger food organisms. Three to four days after
hatching, the fish are able to consume older (larger) brine shrimp nauplii. Because of their small size M. beryllina
larvae must be fed a mixohaline rotifer, Branchionusplicatilus from day of hatch through day five. Thereafter, they
are able to consume newly-hatched and older Artemia nauplii (USEPA, 1987; USEPA 1988). Methods for
culturing brine shrimp are discussed in the Appendix. A stocking density of about 300 larvae is suitable in an 76 L
aquarium.
3.6 CULTURE MAINTENANCE
3.6.1 To avoid excessive build up of algal growths, periodically scrape the walls of aquaria. Activated charcoal in
the aquarium filtration systems should be changed weekly and detritus (dead brine shrimp nauplii or cysts) siphoned
from the bottom of holding aquaria each week. Salinity may be maintained at the proper level by addition of
distilled or deionized water to compensate for evaporation.
4 TEST ORGANISMS
4.1 Fish one to 14 days old are used in acute toxicity tests. Most of the water in the holding aquarium should be
siphoned off before removal of larvae. Larvae can then be siphoned from the holding tanks into a holding vessel. It
is essential that larvae not be handled with a dip net, because it will result in very high mortality. A large-bore,
fire-polished glass tube, 6 mm I.D. x 500 mm long (1/4 in. ID x 18 in. long), equipped with a rubber squeeze bulb
should be used to transfer the larvae from the holding vessel to the test vessels. It is more convenient to first
transfer five fish to each of several small beakers containing 20 mL of saline dilution water. The appropriate
number of fish (multiples of five) can then be added to test vessels.
232
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Goodman, L.R., D.P. Middaugh, D.J. Hansen, P.K. Higdon, and G.M. Cripe. 1983. Early life-stage toxicity test
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2:337-342.
Gosline, W.A. 1948. Speciation in the fishes of the genus Menidia. Evol. 2:306-313.
Hemmer, M.J., D.P. Middaugh, and V. Comparetta. 1992. Comparative acute sensitivity of larval topsmelt,
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11(3):401-408.
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descriptions of two new subspecies. Rept. U.S. Comm. Fish and Fisheries of 1901, pp. 241-267.
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Koltes, K.H. 1985. Effects of sublethal copper concentrations on the structure and activity of Atlantic Silverside
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237
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APPENDIX B
SUPPLEMENTAL LIST OF ACUTE TOXICITY TEST SPECIES
TEST TEMP
TEST ORGANISM
LIFE STAGE
FRESHWATER SPECIES: VERTEBRATES - WARMWATER
Cyprinella leedsi1
Lepomis macrochirus
Ictalums punctatus
Bannerfin shiner
Bluegill sunfish
Channel catfish
25
20,25
FRESHWATER SPECIES: INVERTEBRATES - COLD WATER
Pteronarcys spp.
Pacifastacus
leniusculus
Baetis spp.
Ephemerella spp.
Stoneflies*
Crayfish*
Mayflies*
12
FRESHWATER SPECIES: INVERTEBRATES - WARMWATER
1-14 days
larvae
juveniles
nymphs
Hyalella spp.
Gammarus lacustris
G. fasciatus
G. pseudolimnaeus
Hexagenia limbata
H. bilineata
Chironomus spp.
Amphipods
Mayflies
Midges
20,25
II
II
II
II
II
II
juveniles
nymphs
larvae
* Stoneflies, crayfish, and mayflies may have to be field collected and acclimated for a period of time to ensure
the health of the organisms and that stress from collection is past. Species identification must be verified.
1 Test conditions for Cyprinella leedsi and Holmesimysis costata are found in Table 14 and Table 19,
respectively, in Section 9.
238
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SUPPLEMENTAL LIST OF ACUTE TOXICITY TEST SPECIES (CONTINUED)
TEST ORGANISM
TEST TEMP SALINITY
MARINE AND ESTUARINE SPECIES: VERTEBRATES
Parophrys vetulus
Citharichys sitigmaeus
Pseudopleuronectes
americanus
English sole
Sanddab
Winter flounder
12
"
II
MARINE AND ESTUARINE SPECIES: VERTEBRATES
Paralichthys dentatus
P. lethostigma
Fundulus simillis
Fundulus heteroclitus
Lagodon rhomboides
Orthipristis chrysoptera
Leostomus xanthurus
Gasterosteus aculeatus
Atherinops affmis
Flounder
"
Killifish
Mummichog
Pinfish
Pigfish
Spot
Threespine
stickleback
Topsmelt
20,25
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
21
- COLDWATER
32-34
II
II
- WARMWATER
32-34
II
20-32
25-32
20-32
15-30
10-30
20-32
10-30
LIFE STAGE
1-90 days
ii ii
post metamorphosis
1-90 days
II II
1-30 days
II II
1-90 days
II II
II II
1-30 days
7-15 days
MARINE AND ESTUARINE SPECIES: INVERTEBRATES - COLDWATER
Pandalusjordani
Strongylocentrotus
droebachiensis
Strongylocentrotus
purpuratus
Dendraster excentricus
Cancer magister
Holmesimysis costata2
Oceanic shrimp
Green sea urchin
Purple sea urchin
Sand dollar
Dungeness crab
Mysid
12
II
II
II
II
II
25-32
32-34
II
II
II
II
juvenile
gametes/embryo
ii ii
ii ii
juvenile
1-5 days
MARINE AND ESTUARINE SPECIES: INVERTEBRATES - WARMWATER
Callinectes sapidus
Palaemonetes pugio
P. vulgaris
P. intermedius
Penaeus setiferus
Penaeus duorarum
Penaeus aztecus
Crangon septemspinosa
Mysidopsis almyra
Neomysis americana
Metamysidopsis elongata
Crassostrea virginica
Crassostrea gigas
Arbacia punctulata
Blue crab
Grass shrimp
ii ii
ii ii
White shrimp
Pink shrimp
Brown shrimp
Sand shrimp
Mysid
"
"
American oyster
Pacific oyster
Purple sea urchin
20,25
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
10-30
10-32
II
II
20-32
II
II
25-32
10-32
II
II
20-32
25-32
32-34
juvenile
1-10 days
ii ii
ii ii
post-larval
ii ii
ii ii
ii ii
1-5 days
ii ii
ii ii
embryo
"
gametes/embryo
Test conditions for Holmesimysis costata are found in Table 19.
239
-------
APPENDIX C
DILUTOR SYSTEMS
Two proportional dilutor systems are illustrated: the solenoid valve system, and the vacuum siphon system.
1. Solenoid and Vacuum Siphon Dilutor Systems
The designs of the solenoid and vacuum siphon dilutor systems incorporate features from devices
developed by many other Federal and state programs, and have been shown to be very versatile for on-site bioassays
in mobile laboratories, as well as in fixed (central) laboratories. The Solenoid Valve system is fully controlled by
solenoids (Figures 1, 2, and 3), and is preferred over the vacuum siphon system. The Vacuum Siphon system
(Figures 1, 4, and 5), however, is acceptable. The dilution water, effluent, and pre-mixing chambers for both
systems are illustrated in Figures 6, 7, and 8. Both systems employ the same control panel (Figure 9).
If in the range-finding test, the LC50 of the effluent falls in the concentration range, 6.25-100%,
pre-mixing is not required. The pre-mixing chamber is bypassed by running a TYGON® tube directly from the
effluent in-flow pipe to chamber E-2 (see Figures 3 and 5), and Chambers E-l and D-l and the pre-mixing chamber
are deactivated.
The dilutor systems described here can also be used to conduct tests of the toxicity of pure compounds by
equipping the control panel with an auxiliary power receptacle to operate a metering pump to deliver an aliquot of
the stock solution of the pure compound directly to the mixing chamber during each cycle. In this case, chamber E-l
is de-activated and chamber D-l is calibrated to deliver a volume of 2000 mL, which is used to dilute the aliquot to
the highest concentration used in the toxicity test.
240
-------
i
o
Q.
3
3
O
0>
4-»
TJ
as
(V
-u
in
2?
-o
*^
o
c
0>
'o
I
•M
O
241
-------
FLOW CONTROL
VALVES
DILUTION WATER
INFLOW*
EFFLUENT
INFLOW
CYCLE-
COUNTER
LAPSE'
TIME
CLOCK
MAGENTO
STIRRER
NORMALLY OPEN
.SOLENOID VALVES
7mm (9/32 In,)
DILUTION WATER
CHAMBERS
LIQUID LEVEL
SWITCH
DILUTION WATER OVERFLOW
19 mm (3/4 kv HOLE
12 mm (1/2 h. WASTE LINE
EFFLUENT
CHAMBER
PRE-WIXINQ
CHAMBER
NORMALLY OPEN SOLENOID VALVE
7 mm (W32 IB.) 10
EFFLUENT OVERFLOW
puuuuuu
MIXING CHAMBERS
19 mm (3/4 In,) HOLE
12 mm (1/2 In.) LINE
TEST CHAMBERS 1-20 LITERS CAPACITY
Figure 2. Solenoid valve dllutor system, general diagram (not to scale)
242
-------
EFFLUENT
CHAMBER"*
G
lOwnOO jF
ADJUSTABLE*^
8TANDWE DRAIN
Pfll-MKINQ^.
CHAMBER
MAGNETIC—*
STRREH C
E-1
1!
Jlk
i
_^
r
.0-1
ri
i
!n i
_,_!
u **
f!
6s —
1
M
fT
t t
,;>
*-
_ —
w
£4
« i—
OIUJT10N WATER
«— CHAMIER8
NORMAU.Y CLOSED
-^ SOLENODVALVES
E1,D2.08-7inm(9/32h.)IO
D1-9Jmm(Wh.)lO
SmmOOOEUVEHYTUBE
— NOftMAaY OPEN 80LENOU VALVE
TmmMMdhl m
« mm 00 DELIVER YTL«E
*— EFaUENT CHAMBERS
NORMAUYCLOSED
— ftfllFNflinVIIVE
7m(M2in.)IO -
MIXING CHAMBER
1200 ml CAPACITY
lOwnODOHJVEflYTUBf
f^JSK CHAMBER
140 LITER CAPACITY
NOT!: WHEN 1CWOTLUENT IS USED AS T* HKSHE»TEFflU6HTCONCEMTTIATKDN.
,
INT>WCAStSOUNOtMf<«E.1AN06.l,ANOTHEPRE4«!ONat»WMB6R
MEIUCONNECim W tN-JOU EFFLUENT; W + 64- WIEFTUUeNT,
ETC,
Figure 3, Solenoid valve dilutor system, detailed diagram (not to scale)
243
-------
SOLENOID SYSTEM EQUIPMENT LIST
1. Dilator Glass.
2. Stainless Steel Solenoid Valves
a. 3, normally open, two-way, 55 psi, water, 1/4" pipe size, 9/32" orifice size, ASCO 8262152, for
incoming effluent and dilution water pipes and mixing chamber pipe.
b. 1, normally closed, two-way, 15 psi, water, 3/8" pipe size, 3/8" orifice size, ASCO 8030865, for
D-l chamber evacuation pipe.
c. 12, normally closed, two-way, 36 psi, water, 1/4" pipe size, 9/32" orifice size. ASCO 8262C38,
for remaining dilution chambers (D2-D6) and effluent chamber (E1-E6) evacuation pipes.
3. Stainless steel tubing, seamless, austenitic, 304 grade for freshwater and 316 grade for saline water.
a. 10 ft of 3/8" OD, 0.035" wall thickness, for dilution water and effluent pipes.
b. 60 ft of 1/4" OD, 0.035" wall thickness, for dilution water and effluent pipes.
c. 1 ft of 3/4" OD, 0.035" wall thickness, for standpipe in D1 chamber.
4. Swagelok tube connectors, stainless steel.
a. 4, male tube connectors, male pipe size 1/4", tube OD 3/8".
b. 2, male tube connectors, male pipe size 1/2", tube OD 3/8".
c. 26, male tube connectors, male pipe size 1/4", tube OD 1/4".
d. 2, male tube connectors, male pipe size 3/8", tube OD 3/8".
e. 2, male adaptor, tube to pipe, male size 1/2", tube OD 3/8".
5. 7, 1200 mL stainless steel beakers.
6. Several Ibs each of Neoprene stoppers, sizes 00, 0, and 1; 1 Ib of size 5.
7. 14 - aquarium (1-20 liters).
8. Magnetic stirrer.
9. 2 - PVC ball valves, 1/2" pipe size.
10. Dilutor control panel - see Fig. 9 and equipment list.
11. Plywood sheeting, exterior grade: one - 4' x 8' x 3/4", one - 4' x 8' x 1/2".
12. Pineor redwood board, 1" x 8", 20 ft.
13. Epoxy paint, 1 gal.
14. Assorted wood screws, nails, etc.
15. 25 ft -14" ID, TEFLON® tubing, to connect the mixing chambers to the test chambers.
244
-------
NORMALLY OPEN
SOLENOIDVALVES
FLOWCONTROL VALVES 7 mnv(9/32 h.) ID
OIUJTION K
INFLOW
LAPSE
TIME CLOCK
CONTROL
PANEL
MAGNETIC
ST1RRER
DILUTION WATER
CHAMBERS
EFFLUENT CHAMBER
+ PRE-MIX1NQ
CHAMBER
VACUUM LINE
EFFLUENT
CHAMBERS
" UQUIDLEVELSWITCH
NORMALLY CLOSED
SOLENOID VALVE
9.5 mm (3/8 In.) ID
II
MIXING CHAMBERS
TEST CHAMBERS 1-20 LITERS CAPACITY
Figure 4. Vacuum siphon dilutor system, general diagram (not to scale),
245
-------
VACUUM SIPHON SYSTEM EQUIPMENT LIST
1. Dilutor Glass.
2. Stainless steel solenoid valves.
a. 2, normally open, two-way, 55 psi, water, 1/4" pipe size, 9/32" orifice size, ASCO 8262152, for
incoming effluent and dilution water pipes.
b. 2, normally closed, two-way, 15 psi, water, 3/8" pipe size, 3/8" orifice size, ASCO 8030865, for
dilution water chamber D-6 and effluent chamber E-2.
3. Stainless steel tubing, seamless, austenitic, 304 grade for freshwater and 316 grade for saline water.
a. 60 ft of 3/8" OD, 0.035" wall thickness, for dilution water and effluent pipes.
b. 20 ft of 5/16" OD, 0.035" wall thickness, for standpipes in mixing chambers.
c. 1 ft of 3/4" OD, 0.035" wall thickness, for standpipe in D1 chamber.
4. Swagelok tube connectors, stainless steel.
a. 4, male tube connectors, male pipe size 1/4", tube OD 3/8".
b. 2, male tube connectors, male pipe size 3/8", tube OD 3/8".
c. 2, male adaptor, tube to pipe, male pipe size 1/2", tube OD 3/8".
d. 2, male tube connectors, male pipe size 1/2", tube OD 3/8".
5. 7, 1,200 mL stainless steel beakers.
6. Several Ibs each of Neoprene stoppers, sizes 00, 0, and 1; 1 Ib of size 5.
7. 14 - aquarium (1-20 liters).
8. Magnetic stirrer.
9. 2, PVC Ball valves, 1/2" pipe size.
10. Dilutor control panel equipment - see Fig. 9 and equipment list.
11. 7, 120 mL NALGENE® bottles.
12. 3 ft, l-in-2 aluminum bar, for siphon support brackets.
13. Stainless steel set screws, box of 50, for securing SS tubing in siphon support brackets.
14. Stainless steel hose clamps, box of 10, size #4 or 5, (need 3 boxes).
15. 6, NALGENE® T's, 5/16" OD.
16. 12, TYGON® Y connectors, 3/8" ID.
17. TYGON® tubing, 3/8" OD, 10 ft.
18. Plywood sheeting, exterior grade: one - 4' x 8' x 3/4", one - 4' x 8' x 1/2".
19. Pine or redwood board, 1" x 8", 20 ft.
20. Epoxy paint, 1 gal.
21. Assorted wood screws, nails, etc.
22. 25 ft of 5/16" ID, TEFLON® tubing, to connect the mix5ng chambers to the test chambers.
246
-------
E-1
NORMALLY CLOSED
SOLENOID VALVE
9.6 mm (3/8 in.) ID
DILUTION WATER CHAMBERS
VACUUM UNE
« mm O.D. CONNECTING TUBE T FORM
10 mm O.D. U SHAPE SYPHON TUBE
« mm O.D. VACUUM UNE TUBE
STAINLESS STEEL HOSE CLAMP
10 mm I.D. CONNECTING TUBES Y FORM
10 mm O.D. DELIVERY TUBE
120 ml BOTTLE VACUUM BLOCK
10 mm O.D. DELIVERY TUBE
10mm O.D. DELIVERY TUBE
10 mm O.D. AUTOMATIC SYPHON TUBE
EFFLUENT CHAMBERS
10 mm O.D. U SHAPE SYPHON TUBE
10 mm I.D. CONNECTING TUBE Y FORM
10 mm O.D. DELIVERY TUBE
MIXING CHAMBER 1200 ml CAPACITY
10 mm OD. DELIVERY TUBE
TEST CHAMBERS CAPACITY 1-» UTERS
Figure 5. Vacuum siphon dilutor system, detailed diagram (not to scale),
247
-------
EFFLUENT CHAMBER DILUTION WATER CHAMBERS
F1
Wx
E1
A
STANDPIPE 11 II \
DRAIN XX C1 C2
BOTTOM PLATES
C1 C2
V
IT '
D1
/V
"ft
*r
02
X
-«
KOMI Mm*-*
Oil tOTuMntWimi.!
11: MM>KM iM1m-MM m.
Dl!
at
Oft
D*
a
MMlMM iMOMl- 7M M.
mmMm iMOw HO «*.
MBlNMl lMvi-t14C lH,
MKMim »MMi-11« M.
nniMfiw i»c>M-ino "*.
Figure 6. Effluent and dilution water chambers (not to scale)
248
-------
B
B
y
*
t
en
E2
V
/
\
E3
1 4
1 '
>J
E4
>
E5
/f
<
T
El
/H
^
3
s
\$i
EFFLUENT OVERFLOW
19 mm (3/4 In.) HOLE
12 mm (1/2 in.) LINE
X
BOTTOM PLATE (C)
4
" " oo/ nun — »-
^61 »-152 —
0 0
-»>203-»-237H
O O
•"270*
O
DRAIN HOLES IN BOTTOM PLATE (C) SHOWN FOR SOLENOID VALVE
DILUTOR SYSTEM ONLY. FOR VACUUM SIPHON DILUTOR SYSTEM, A
DRAIN HOLE IS REQUIRED ONLY FOR CHAMBER E2.
,£ART SIZE AND NUMBER OF PIECES USING A 6 mm (1/4 in.)
PLATE GLASS ARE SHOWN BELOW. NOTE: 1/16 in. No. 304 (FOR FRESH
6 JBSS888 STEEMFOR SALINE WWB* ^ BE
LENSIU WIDTH NQ.PJECES<9)
A
B
C
D
180 mm x 80mm -2
155 mm x 80mm -4
296 mm x 92 mm - 1
296 mm x 180 mm -2
END PLATES)
PARTITIONS)
BOTTOM PLATE)
FRONT AND BACK PLATES)
INSIDE CHAMBER MEASURMENTS AND APPROXIMATE VOLUMES.
WIDTH LENSIH HE1QHI VOLUME
E2: 110mm x 80mm
E3: 60 mm x 80 mm
E4: 30 mm x 80 mm
E5: 30 mm x 80 mm
E6: 30 mm x 80 mm
x 155mm
x 155mm
x 155 mm
x 155mm
x 155mm
-1364 mL
- 744 mL
- 372 mL
- 372 mL
- 372 mL
Figure 7. Effluent chambers (not to scale)
249
-------
M-2
M-4
M-3
240 mm
SIDE VIEW
END VIEW
125mm
M-1
f
19 mm (3/4 In.) HOLE
12 mm (1/2 in.) LINE
— 15mm
h*-
165mm
-»*l
INDIVIDUAL PART SIZE AND NUMBER OF PIECES USING
6 mm (1/4 In.) PLATE GLASS. APPROXIMATE CAPACITY
4360 mL
M-1 125 mm x 153 mm
M-2 125 mm x 153 mm
M-3 240 mm x 165 mm
M-4 240 mm x 125 mm
- 1 (END PLATE, WITH HOLE)
• 1 (END PLATE)
- 1 (BOTTOM PLATE)
- 2 (SIDE PLATES)
Figure 8. Pre-mixing chamber (not to scale).
250
-------
s-
05
*
cn
c
01
Q.
o
o
o
i-
o
(U
3
O>
251
-------
Designation
DILUTOR CONTROL PANEL EPUIPMENT LIST*
CKT Description Manufacturer
A,
CTR-1
ET
F,
L2
L.S.
PI
Si
S2
Encapsulated amplifier
Cycle counter
Elapsed time indicator
Input power fuse
Receptacle
Aux A.C. output jack
Main input power cord
Fill indicator light
Emptying indicator light
Liquid level sensor (Dual Sensing Probe)
Plug
On-off main power switch (spst)
On-off aux power switch (spst)
Solenoid
Cutler Hammer 13535H98C
Redington#P2-1006
Conrac #636W-AA H&T
Little fuse 342038
Amphenol91PC4F
Stand. 3-prong AC Rcpt.
Stand. 3-prong AC male plug
Dialco 95-0408-09-141
Dialco 95-0408-09-141
Cutler Hammer 13653H2
Amphenol91MC4M
Cutler Hammer 7580 K7
Cutler Hammer 7580 K7
(See Solenoid and Vacuum System
equipment lists)
SJ2
SJ3
SJ4-SJ6
TDR-1
TDR-2
II II II II
II II II II
Additional Solenoids " " "
for Solenoid Valve System
Time delay relay Dayton 5x829
Aux time delay relay Dayton 5x829
* Consult local electric supply house.
252
-------
APPENDIX D
PLANS FOR MOBILE TOXICITY TEST LABORATORY
D.I. TANDEM-AXLE TRAILER
SPOTLIGHT
i-
AIR CONDITIONER
(
!
REGION IV
ATHENS GEORGIA
EXTERNAL SIDE VIEW
WINDOW
_a
IS'
,
CABINETS
DOOR
DILUTEES
WINDOW
1 a ainwimi^mnri-i HOLDING TANKS
WALL CABINETS . OVER DRAWERS
TOP VIEW
Figure 1. Mobile bioassay laboratory, tandem axle trailer. Above - external
side view; below - internal view from above.
-------
/\
SWITCH'S
OUTSIDE SPOTLIGHT
CEILING LIGHTS
WEATHERPROOF SPOTLIGHT
7
7/
REAR INSIDE
o
0
a
LICENSE PLATE REAR OUTSIDE
WINDOW
• DRAWERS •
FRONT INSIDE
.AIR CONDITIONER,
WINDOW
D
FRONT OUTSIDE
Figure 2. Mobile bioassay laboratory, tandem-axle trailer, external and internal
end views.
254
-------
LEFT SIDE
. ELECTRIC OUTLETS,
j
:
P
—•••••••••••••••IIIIH
mmummimillim^mmmm***
\
\
I
V^^H^^^H*^^^
I
I
m^
V
***^sr • ^""--«.
D
DILUTER BOARD
""-•-a
/\
AIR CONDITIONER^
FRONT A
STAINLESS STEEL TROUGH STAINLESS STEEL TROUGH
WHEEL WILL I — —
CABINETS WITH 6" OPENING DUAL WHEEL WELL DRAWERS
SLIDING DOORS WITH 24"X16"
SPRING COVER
ON OUTSIDE
RIGHT SIDE
CABINETS 1.8" X 12"
SLIDING ODORS
FRONT
_ ELECTRIC OUTLET
_---7 \
o~^ d d
SWITCH'S PUMP UNDER SINK
CABINET LIGHTS
2 DRAWERS
18"X18"
3 DRAWERS
24"X16"
DUAL WHEEL WELL
36" HIGH CABINETS
SLIDING DOORS
•18'.
Figure 3. Mobile bioassay laboratory, tandem-axle trailer, internal views of
side walls.
255
-------
APPENDIX D
PLANS FOR MOBILE TOXICITY TEST LABORATORY
D.2. FIFTH WHEEL TRAILER
DILUTOR STSTEH
AIR CONDITIONER
OHUTOR SYSTEM
UPPER CABINETS
COUNTER TOP
DRAWER
~7
DOUBLE SHELVES
FOR STATIC TESTS
PLAN A
SINK
WATER TANK""
32" DOOR
CASINET
DOOR
UPPER CABINETS
COUNTER TOP
SINK
UPPEft CABINETS
COUNTER TOP
DRAWERS'" WATER TANtT AIR CONDITIONERv
DOUBLE SHELVES
FOR STATIC TEST
DILU1ER SYSTEMS
PLAN B
•12.5 FEET.
6.5 FEET
Figure 4. Mobile bioassay trailer, fifth-wheel trailer, internal view from
above.
256
-------
APPENDIX E
CHECKLISTS AND INFORMATION SHEETS
E.I. TOXICITY TEST FIELD EQUIPMENT LIST
Truck
_Boards
_CSnder blocks
_Drums: 500 gal nalgene
55 gal metal - diesel fuel
22 gal
_Gas can 5 gal
.Jacks
_Jumper cables
_Pumps: (2) Homelite
Hoses & couplings
_Shovels
.Spare tires (trailer, generator)
Acetone
Aerators (battery operated)
Air line: Clamps
Aerators (battery operated)
Air line: ......T Clamps
Stones
Tubing
Valves
Alcohol
Aluirinum foil
Alkalinity analysis (0.02 N H2S04)
Boots: safety
Hading
Batteries D cell
Beakers: 150 ml nalgene
200 ml glass (3 boxes)
_8ottles: D.O.
wash
Sample
VOA vials
500 ml plastic
Glass organic
Qt. w/teflon liner
_Brine shrimp eggs
_Broora
_Brushes (wash)
_Buckets
_Camera
_Chlorine kit (w/chem)
_Cleanser
_Clip board (Ig, sm)
_Cork borer set
^.Culture dishes (200 nt, Oaphnia)
_Daphnia food
_Data sheets: Bioassay (static)
Bioassay (flow-thru)
Dilutor volume delivery
Calibrator delivery sheet
Daily events log
_Dish pan
_Dish rack
.Dissolved oxygen:
KCl membrane solution
Membranes
Meter (YS!)
Probes
Reagent: HnSo4
Alkaline azide
0.0375 Na thiosulfate
Starch
_0istilled HjO
.Emergency road kit
_Enamel pans (Ig, sm)
_Erlemneyer flasks:
500 nt (2)
1000 ml
.2000 nt
.Extension cords
_Fire extinguisher
.First aid kit
_Fish nets, (Ig, sm)
'Flash light
_Generator: Oi I
Filter - fuel
Funnel
Grease gun (wheels)
Credit card
Lock/key
Siphon hose
257
-------
E.I. TOXICITY TEST FIELD EQUIPMENT LIST (CONT.)
_GLass cutter
_Gloves (plastic)
_Graduated cylinders:
25 mL, 50 mL, 100 mL
250 mL, 500 mL, 1000 mL, 2000 ml
_Ground wire & rod
_Hsnd soap
~Hard hats
_Hardness analysis: Buffer
EDTA
indicator
_HU (20X)
Jteaters: Aquarium
_Space
Hose: Clamps
Connectors
Ice chests
Jars:
750 mL <4 boxes)
. 3 gal (glass) (1)
5 gal (glass) (1)
Sample jugs (2>
JCimwipes (lg, am)
_Lab coats (2)
"level
"tight 110 V
J.OQ book
_Magnetic stirrers:
.Lighted
Other
_Hop
_Rubber bands
_Ruler
_Safety glasses
_Safety manual
[sample labels
_Scissors
_Screen bioassay cups
_Sea salts
_Separatory funnels & racks
^Silent giants
_SHicon sealant
.Solenoids (spare)
_Stainless steel tubing pieces
"standard Methods Hand Book
_Stirring bars
_S toppers (assorted)
^Submersible pumps: _ lg, sin.
_ screens
_$uper ice
Jablets (paper)
_Tape: Cellophane
____Color coded
_ Electrician
_ Masking
_ Nylon
Thermometers: _ Dial
_ Glass
_Tools (lock/key)
_Tygon tubing, 1/8", 1/4", 3/8"
'volumetric flasks (1000 mL, 2000 mL)
Paper towels
Parachute cord
Parafilm
Pencils, pens
Meters, Orion
.Meters, corning
Buffers, 4,7,10
Probes (extras)
_Pipets: Bulbs
Eyedroppers
Volumetric (1 mL, 5 mL, 10 mL)
_Plastic bags
_Quality assurance • SPCP
_Rain gear
_Reconstituted hard water
_Refractometer
_Respiraters (cartridges)
_Ueigh boats
_Wire tags
258
-------
APPENDIX E
CHECKLISTS AND INFORMATION SHEETS
E.2. INFORMATION CHECK LIST FOR ON-SITE INDUSTRIAL
OR MUNICIPAL WASTE TOXICITY TEST
1. PRE-TRIP INFORMATION
Facility Name:
Address:
Phone number:
Plant Representative(s):
Names, Titles, Addresses of Company Personnel:
A. To Receive Correspondence:
B. To Receive Carbons:
Date of Notification Letter:
State Making Notification and Arrangements:
Special Plant Safety/Security Requirements for EPA Personnel to Observe:
Local Accommodation Recommendations:
Directions to Plant:
Availability of Power Hookups (three 20-amp, 110-V Circuits)
259
-------
Distance from Power Source to Trailer: (Feet)
Trailer Location:
Possible Source of Dilution Water:
Major Products:
Raw Materials:
Name of Receiving Water:
Schedule of Plant Operation (continuous, weekdays only, etc.):
Treatment Steps:
Treatment Level (BPT, BAT, etc.):
Wastewater Retention Time by Lagoon or Treatment Step:
Lagoon Retention Time
Designation Hours Days
Total Wastewater Retention Time: Hours; Days
Retention Time Determination: Calculated; Actual
Calculation method:
260
-------
Description of Wastewater Tap Point:
Description of Outfall (surface, submerged diffuser, etc.)
Description of Other Waste Disposal Alternatives in Use (spray irrigation,
deepwell, municipal discharge, etc.): .
2. ON-SITE INFORMATION
Wastewater General Characteristics:
Color:
Odor:
Solids:
Other:
Serial Number(s) of Discharge(s) to be Tested:
Description of Receiving Water: Uniflow; Tidal;
Approximate amplitude, feet
Color:
Odor:
Solids:
Salinity: High tide ; Low tide
Other: .^__^
7Q10: ; Ave. flow
261
-------
Description of Receiving Water Zone of Dilution:
Location and Description of Water Sampling Point(s)
Fresh:
Salt:
Dilution Waste General Characteristics:
Color: •
Odor:
Solids:
Other:
Description of Toxicity Test Anomalies (plant production changes, power
failure, rain events, etc.):
Duration
Time & Date Time & Date Anomal v
Description of Plant maintenance:
Attach: DIAGRAM OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITIES.
262
-------
3. FOLLOW-UP INFORMATION
Date of follow-up letter:
Wastewater Flow (data supplied by discharger):
Week Prior to Testing Week of Testing
Date Discharge (MGD) Date Discharge (MGD)
Average Discharge (MGD):
Organisms Tested On-site or In-Lab:
Flow-thru Static
test test
duration duration Test
Species (hj fh) • Location Dates Results
Possible Recommended Action as a Result of These Findings:
263
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APPENDIX E
CHECKLISTS AND INFORMATION SHEETS
E.3. DAILY EVENTS LOG
Date: Page of Pages
Site: . Day # of Study
Initials: Day # of Flow-through Test
Time: Notes:
264
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Calibration Site:
Dilutor Number:
APPENDIX E
CHECKLISTS AND INFORMATION SHEETS
E.4. DILUTOR CALIBRATION FORM
Calibrator:
Date:
Effluent
Concentration (%)
Dilution Water (ml)
Trial 1
2
3
Average
Effluent (ml)
Trial 1
2
3
Average
100.0
0
1000
50.0
500
500
25.0
750
250
12.5
876
125
6.25
938
62
3.12
969
31
1.56
984
16
Mixing Chamber {%):
Wastewater (ml):
Dilution Water (ml)
Vol (ml)
Trial 1
2
3
Average
Dilution
Water
Effluent
Remarks:
265
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APPENDIX E
CHECK LISTS AND INFORMATION SHEETS
E.5. DAILY DILUTOR CALIBRATION CHECK
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