A review of the factors affecting the ecotoxicology of Diporeia spp.

Based on its biomass, Diporeia spp. represent the major benthic invertebrate in offshore waters of the Great Lakes. This work reviews the recent findings of factors influencing the organism with particular focus on interpreting the potential for contaminant stress, with an emphasis on organic contaminants, and the benthic pelagic link for contaminant food web transfer. The review includes examination of the environmental features that limit the distribution and population density. The physiology of Diporeia spp., including energy storage, respiration, and nutrient elimination, are discussed. The toxicokinetics from both aqueous and sediment exposures are reviewed, as well as both the environmental factors that influence the kinetics and the limitations to our knowledge. The interactions of the physiology and toxicokinetics are presented for interpretation of toxic responses and the sensitivity of the organism to selected contaminants. Finally, this review suggests areas where increased information is needed to improve our understanding of Diporeia toxicokinetics and toxicity In the Great Lakes environment.