ABSTRACT
A review is presented of the recent literature (published after 1980) on the choice of structural parameters in studying the biological effects of pesticides in freshwater ecosystems. A short overview is given of the types of pesticide applied. Three types of test system are distinguished, viz., macrophyte-dominated lentic systems, open water lentic systems, and lotic systems. The biological populations frequently studied in these systems, and the set of parameters used, are outlined. Gaps in the knowledge of community structure responses in pesticide-stressed freshwaters are discussed. Furthermore, the predictability and causality of structural community responses is commented on, with reference to primary and secondary effects of pesticides and the recovery of affected populations.
