Ecotoxicology and ecosystem integrity : the great lakes examined

The concept of ecosystem integrity is discussed with respect to the Great Lakes. Concern for extrapolation of data from standard laboratory species to more complex ecosystems had led to multiple species testing, chronic toxicity bioassays and attempts to pursue an integrated approach. Stress ecology and graph theory were used to assess the health of the Green Bay ecosystem. The stresses were excess nutrients, toxic compounds, eg PCB, and suspended solids and sediments. Mathematical models were used to predict chemical fate. Methods for assessment of ecosystem integrity are discussed. The implications of ecotoxicology on society are examined,