Field and Experimental Morphological Response of Chironomus Larvae (Diptera, Nematocera) To Xylene and Toluene

Authors: Janssens De Bisthoven, L.¹; Huysmans, C.¹; Vannevel, R.²; Goemans, G.¹; Ollevier, F.¹

Source: Netherlands Journal of Zoology, Volume 47, Number 2, 1996 , pp. 227-239(13)

Publisher: BRILL

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $35.00 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

The morphological response of Chironomus gr. thummi larvae after a spill of xylene (10000 1) and toluene (7500 1) in a brook was investigated. At the site of the spill, the proportion of larvae with mentum and antennal deformities increased in the following months. Downstream (500 m), no such clear response could be discerned. Mandible deformities occurred as well, but the fluctuations could not be related to the pulse pollution. Fugacity and concentration models predict a higher affinity of xylene to sediments and biota. Therefore, a short term 72 h exposure test with xylene (0, 10, 100, 1000 μl/l) was performed on early instar larvae. Fourth instar larvae with a split medial mentum tooth represented 15% of the surviving population (mortality was 44%) at a concentration of 10 μl/l xylene.

Keywords: morphological deformities; Chironomus larvae; xylene; toluene; bioindicator; pulse pollution

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/156854297X00184

Affiliations: 1: Laboratory of Ecology and Aquaculture, Catholic University of Leuven, Naamsestraat 59, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium 2: Vlaamse Milieu Maatschappij, Buitendienst Gent, Maaltecenter Blok E, Derbystraat 135, 9051 St.-Denijs Westrem, Belgium

Publication date: 1996-01-01

More about this publication?