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TNT, RDX, and HMX decrease earthworm (Eisenia andrei) life-cycle responses in a spiked natural forest soil
P Y Robidoux1, J Hawari, G Bardai
1Applied Ecotoxicology Group, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Council of Canada, 6100 Royalmount Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H4P 2R2, Canada. Pierre-Yves.Robidoux@nrc.ca
Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology
|October 26, 2002
Summary
Sublethal effects of explosives like 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), RDX, and HMX on earthworms Eisenia andrei were studied. Reproduction was impacted at lower concentrations in natural soil than artificial soil, suggesting varied toxicity mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Environmental toxicology
- Soil science
- Ecotoxicology
Background:
- Explosives like TNT, RDX, and HMX are environmental contaminants.
- Earthworms are crucial soil organisms and indicators of soil health.
- Understanding the ecotoxicity of explosives in natural soil is vital for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the sublethal and chronic toxicity of TNT, RDX, and HMX on Eisenia andrei reproduction and growth.
- To compare toxicity in natural sandy forest soil versus artificial soil preparations.
- To investigate potential differences in toxicity mechanisms among the tested explosives.
Main Methods:
- Earthworms (Eisenia andrei) were exposed to varying concentrations of TNT, RDX, and HMX in sandy forest soil.
- Reproduction parameters (cocoon production, hatching, juvenile counts, biomass) were monitored.
- Adult growth and survival rates were also assessed.
Main Results:
- Reproductive parameters were significantly reduced by TNT, RDX, and HMX at lower concentrations in natural soil compared to artificial soil.
- TNT significantly decreased adult growth at 136.2 mg/kg, while RDX and HMX showed no significant effects on growth or survival at tested concentrations.
- All explosives decreased juvenile counts, but differences in other reproductive parameters suggest distinct toxicity mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- The toxicity of TNT, RDX, and HMX to Eisenia andrei is concentration-dependent and influenced by soil type.
- Earthworm reproduction is more sensitive to these explosives in natural soil than previously shown in artificial media.
- Differences in reproductive effects indicate that TNT, RDX, and HMX likely exert toxicity through varied mechanisms in earthworms.