Two simple algorithms for refining mammalian receptor selection in ecological risk assessments

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Ecotoxicology
• Risk Assessment

Background:

• Existing guidelines for ecological risk assessments (ERA) at contaminated sites often include mammals.
• The spatial relevance of commonly selected mammalian receptors is frequently overlooked.
• This oversight can lead to inefficient and overly complex risk assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce two algorithms for screening mammalian receptors based on spatial relevance.
• To demonstrate that most mammals are not spatially relevant for typical contaminated sites.
• To propose simplifying terrestrial ERAs by excluding non-relevant mammalian receptors.

Main Methods:

• Development and application of two simple algorithms.
• Utilizing readily available spatial distribution data, such as animal density.
• Determining the minimum site size (80-100 acres) required for most mammalian receptors to be spatially relevant.

Main Results:

• The algorithms indicate that the majority of mammalian receptors lack spatial relevance at most hazardous waste sites.
• Contaminated sites are generally smaller than the threshold size (80-100 acres) needed for mammalian relevance.
• Many terrestrial ERAs could potentially exclude mammals without compromising assessment validity.

Conclusions:

• Incorporating a spatial relevance screen for mammals can significantly streamline ecological risk assessments.
• Decision-makers should be aware of the limited spatial relevance of many mammals in terrestrial ERAs.
• Excluding non-relevant mammals can improve efficiency and focus resources on more pertinent ecological concerns.