Abstract
Organic matter (OM) decomposition and soil fauna feeding activity were integrated as functional endpoints into ecotoxicological tests with intact-soil-core Terrestrial Model Ecosystems (TMEs). Cellulose filter paper served as standardized OM and was either inserted into the top soil or placed on the soil surface for a period of up to 16 weeks. Faunal feeding activity was assessed by the bait-lamina method. The fungicide carbendazim, applied at six dosages ranging from 0.36 kg/ha to 87.5 kg a.i./ha, served as a model chemical. To validate the results from the TME test, a field study was run in parallel. In TMEs the cellulose paper inserted into the soil was decomposed faster than under field conditions. The carbendazim-induced effects on OM decomposition in TMEs and in the field were comparable and followed a clear dose-response relationship. The calculated EC
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 129-141 |
Journal | Ecotoxicology |
Volume | 13 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2004 |