Integrating Field Analyses with Laboratory Exposures to Assess Ecosystems Health

In this article, we present studies that were established to assess the state of the environment as it pertains to the presence of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PAC) and to fulfill the goal of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Canada's Oceans Strategy “to ensure healthy, safe and prosperous oceans for the benefit of current and future generations of Canadians.” Analyses of parental and alkylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and dibenzothiophene derivatives in offshore biota were needed as background data prior to the construction of oil rigs in Eastern Canada. Later, the quality of biotic and abiotic compartments in proximity to raw sewage effluents was investigated. In addition, chemistry-based studies were integrated with time, toxicology endpoints, to determine the impact associated with the body burden of three invertebrate species. Bioaccumulation and biotransformation was pursued in laboratory-exposed finfish, amphipods, and snails. Measurements of toxicity emphasized the link betwe...