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This volume describes the development, application, and analysis of a methodology for forecasting probable effects of toxic chemicals on the production dynamics of a generalized aquatic ecosystem. It explains, in detail, how methods are derived for extrapolating the results of toxicity tests performed with laboratory populations, and it estimates the effects of toxins on corresponding populations in natural lakes and rivers. The methodology represents an innovative approach for using the vast amount of routinely collected toxicology data to forecast toxic effects. Furthermore, this book considers the implications of uncertainties associated with these extrapolations and attempts to directly consider them when making the forecasts. The results of the forecasts are then evaluated in the context of experiments performed in laboratory microcosms and larger outdoor ponds, where the effects of phenolic compounds were examined. Finally, are discussed the results in relation to modifying the aquatic system simulation mode, refining model parameter estimates, and modifying toxicity assays for collecting more ecologically relevant data. This book is unique in that it provides a working methodology to use when forecasting risk in probabilistic terms based on current toxicity test results. As a result, it will be an essential reference source for environmental scientists, aquatic ecologists, toxicologists, ecosystem modelers, and policy makers.

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CHOICE Review

A valuable work, inappropriately titled; "risk assessment for aquatic habitats" better describes its content and focus. Ecological risk assessment (ERA) is a rapidly evolving field aimed at estimating the impact of development and/or chemical pollution on natural ecosystems and their component populations. The complexity of ecosystems makes ERA much more complicated and subject to uncertainties than human health risk assessemnt, where a single species is the target. Experimental approaches in ecosystem mesocosms (more familiarly known as "ponds") are well described in this book, which provides a background for ERA, describes the legislative framework for making such investigations, and moves from sources of toxicological data to experimental methods and interpretive approaches. Theoretical approaches to modeling, including risk forecasting, are discussed, and there are good chapters on comparing empirical results with predictions from models. ERA still has a long way to go, and the final chapter on future directions identifies research needs for the future, some of which are published here for the first time. Advanced undergraduate through professional. J. Burger; Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey