ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the various laboratory and field testing techniques that have been used in ecotoxicological research and outline their potential roles in the hazard evaluation process. As a consequence, ecotoxicologists have sought to develop and apply toxicological approaches in the laboratory and field that more realistically simulate actual environmental exposures and biological interactions. Laboratory systems and field systems have been extensively used in toxicological assessments. The difficulties and limitations inherent in partial and full life-cycle tests have prompted development of a number of biological indicator techniques. These techniques, applied during chronic testing, are intended to serve as rapid and sensitive diagnostic indices unequivocally correlated to vital whole-animal responses such as behavior, physiological condition, and development. Consequently, ecotoxicologists have attempted to increase the accuracy and validity of their research through the use of more realistic models of aquatic systems, such as microcosms, laboratory streams, mesocosms, and actual field environments.
