Assessment of freshwater sediment quality: potential ecological risk and ecotoxicity tests as complementary approaches

Abstract

ABSTRACT The main objective of this study was to assess the quality of sediments collected from rivers in the Northeast of Algeria. A dual approach, including trace metals assessment as well as ecotoxicity tests (Microtox® solid and leachate phase assays), was conducted. Results showed that surface sediments were contaminated with Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn. By using sediment quality guidelines (SQGs) and potential risk index, we concluded that there was a significant potential risk for benthic fauna. Microtox® solid and leachate phase assays showed that sediments with the highest trace metal contents appear to be potentially ecotoxic for Allivibrio fisheri. In this study, in attempting to link chemical characteristics with ecotoxicity test results, we got a trend going in the right direction. Samples with highest metal contents appear to be potentially ecotoxic for A. fisheri. These results suggest the usefulness of a diversity of approaches in sediment quality assessment.