Luminescent bacteria
A test system for analysing aquatic toxicity using luminescent bacteria is used throughout the EU as an iso-standard method (EN ISO 11348).
In contrast to chemical-physical methods, the entire toxicological potential of a water sample or sediment is analysed here. In addition to acute toxic effects, sub-acute toxic effects (chronic toxicity) and genotoxic compounds (= mutagenic effects) can also be analysed. These tests could play a major role in commercial fish farming or for expensive fish (e.g. koi). Analysing possible genotoxic parameters would be an interesting analysis system for avoiding long-term risks when breeding and keeping valuable young fish, for example.
Quote: Dipl.-Biol. Dr rer. nat. Dietmar Scheddin