TITLE:
The Potential of a Sediment Avoidance Test for Assessment of Hazardous Waste Sites
AUTHORS:
Roger B. Yeardley Jr.
KEYWORDS:
Avoidance, Sediment, Contaminated, Hyalella, Behavior, Ecotoxicity
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Environmental Protection,
Vol.17 No.7,
July
21,
2026
ABSTRACT: Based on the success of an earthworm soil avoidance test and the value of a similar fast, inexpensive tool for assessment of sediment at the large number of contaminated sites worldwide, experiments were undertaken to explore the development of a sediment avoidance test. Results of mobility tests with only control sediments were a key factor in choosing Hyalella for this test from a list of 3 candidate organisms with a history of use in standardized ecotoxicology tests: Hyalella azteca, Lumbriculus variegatus, and Chironomus dilutus. In these tests Chironomus individuals generally stayed on the side of chambers where they were deployed (p = 0.0019). Hyalella was found in relatively equal numbers on each side of the chambers (p = 0.346), while Lumbriculus was inconsistent in this regard. Hyalella avoided contaminated sediments, both in tests with field site sediments from multiple locations containing a variety of contaminants (metals PCBs, PAHs, dioxins/furans) and tests with sediments spiked with the ubiquitous, persistent contaminants PCBs and PAHs. There was evidence of increased sensitivity of the avoidance test, as well as a correlation between avoidance and the more standardized endpoints of growth and survival. Hyalella avoided sediments with significant mortality, and to some which showed little mortality in acute tests. test showing more sensi. As part of test development, the effects of other behaviors on test results and interpretation, including phototaxis and thigmotaxis, were explored. This test can be conducted with inexpensive, easily available equipment and materials, making it accessible to a wide range of groups and individuals. Therefore, this 24-hour Hyalella sediment avoidance test has good potential for use in assessment of contaminated sediments.