Validation of reproduction tests with molluscs - Establishment of an OECD test guideline for the identification of endocrine and reproductive toxic effects in snails

Reproduction tests with molluscs – new OECD test guideline developed and validated
Although molluscs respond particularly sensitive to many pollutants, no standard tests with representatives of this species-rich phylum was established for routine chemical testing in Europe so far. A standardized OECD partial life-cycle test method (No. 242) with the mud snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum was developed and validated in a research project sponsored by UBA. Several ring trials have been performed by international experts and laboratories, managed by eco-toxicologists from the Goethe University Frankfurt (Main). The project results prove the test system as sensitive, robust, and meaningful for the investigation of reproductive effects in molluscs.