Effects of C₆₀ nanoparticle exposure on earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus) and implications for population dynamics

van der Ploeg, M.J.C.; Baveco, J.M.; van der Hout, A.; Bakker, R.; Rietjens, I.M.C.M.; van den Brink, N.W.

Effects of C₆₀ nanoparticle exposure on earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus) and implications for population dynamics

2011

Effects of C₆₀ nanoparticles (nominal concentrations 0, 15.4 and 154mg/kg soil) on mortality, growth and reproduction of Lumbricus rubellus earthworms were assessed. C₆₀ exposure had a significant effect on cocoon production, juvenile growth rate and mortality. These endpoints were used to model effects on the population level. This demonstrated reduced population growth rate with increasing C₆₀ concentrations. Furthermore, a shift in stage structure was shown for C₆₀ exposed populations, i.e. a larger proportion of juveniles. This result implies that the lower juvenile growth rate due to exposure to C₆₀ resulted in a larger proportion of juveniles, despite increased mortality among juveniles. Overall, this study indicates that C₆₀ exposure may seriously affect earthworm populations. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that juveniles were more sensitive to C₆₀ exposure than adults.

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