Enchytraeus crypticus as model species in soil ecotoxicology

Enchytraeids are ecologically relevant soil organisms, due to their activity in decomposition and bioturbation in many soil types worldwide. The enchytraeid reproduction test (ERT) guidelines ISO 16387 and OECD 220 are exclusive to the genus Enchytraeus and recommend using the species E. albidus with a 6-week test period. The suggested alternative, E. crypticus has a shorter generation time which may enable the ERT to be twice as fast. To confirm the suitability of a 3-week test period for E. crypticus, the toxicity of five chemicals, with distinct properties and modes of action, was assessed in LUFA 2.2 soil. In all controls the validity criteria were met, as survival of E. crypticus was above 92% and more than 772 juveniles were produced. The good performance supports its appropriateness as model species. Reproduction was more sensitive than survival, with only cadmium and 3,5-dichloroaniline causing significant lethal effects in the tested concentration ranges. The effect concentration causing 50% reduction in the number of juveniles (EC50) was 35 mg kg⁻¹ for cadmium, <1.0 mg kg⁻¹ for carbendazim, 145 mg kg⁻¹ for phenanthrene, 275 mg kg⁻¹ for pentachloroaniline and 102 mg kg⁻¹ for 3,5-dichloroaniline. To evaluate the sensitivity of E. crypticus, the present results were compared to literature data for E. albidus. In conclusion, E. crypticus is a suitable model species in soil ecotoxicology, with advantages such as good control performance and speed, leading to a reliable and faster ERT.     

The environment and Britain's aid programme

Summary Some of the environmental and developmental activities assisted by Britain's Programme of Overseas Aid are outlined. In particular, the article draws attention to a new booklet published by the Overseas Development Administration to mark the European Year of the Environment which, in the Minister's words, shows how through British aid, programme improvements are possible by a combination of sound scientific research and a sensitivity to people's needs.Mr Christopher Patten, Member of Parliament for Bath, is the UK's current Minister for Overseas Development. He also serves as Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. The Minister may be contacted through the offices of the Overseas Development Administration, Eland House, Stag Place, London SW1E 5DH, UK.