Environmental bioassays are one method of assessing the presence of potentially harmful compounds. In this bioassay seminar, students will:
- Use bioassay investigations to develop students’ understanding of the effects of chemical concentration on survival of living organisms
- Make the connection between the survival of simple organisms and human survival
- Understand the role that model organisms play in informing humans about the effects of toxicants
Bioassays use organisms that show particular sensitivity to possible pollutants. The four organisms that will be examined in this seminar are:
- Daphnia are small, planktonic crustaceans with bodies that are transparent. Under a microscope, the beating heart of Daphnia can be observed. Using this feature, students can monitor Daphnia heart rates under different environmental conditions.
- Brine shrimp are tiny aquatic crustaceans that can be easily observed.
- Planaria
- Algae
Students will learn about each specific organism and conduct several prescribed assay protocols. As part of this seminar, students will use microscopes to both observe and act on the tiny organisms. Students require practice to do this successfully and need to become proficient before undertaking the next step in toxicology and bioassay investigations.
Deals
Some financial aid is available, please contact for availability.