Acute and Chronic Toxicity of Cadmium to the Fathead Minnow (Pimephales promelas)

Abstract

Two continuous-flow bioassays on the chronic toxicity of cadmium to the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas Rafinesque) indicated that the maximum acceptable toxicant concentration (MATC) for this species is between 57 and 37 μg Cd/liter. The experimental concentration of 57 μg Cd/liter decreased survival of the developing embryos, the embryos being the most sensitive life stage. At lower concentrations of 37 to 4.5 μg Cd/liter, no adverse effect on survival, growth, or reproduction was found. Application factors based on the acute bioassays are discussed in relation to the great variation in toxicity values.