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Percent Survival
Many industries are required to develop and implement a storm water monitoring plan in order to monitor storm
water runoff from their facilities. This plan may include the testing of various
chemical and physical parameters for one or two significant rainfall events per
wet season. In addition to chemical/physical testing, (or as an alternative to
the chemical analysis of a possible endless list of likely contaminants),
facilities may need to conduct a percent survival test. Many aquatic toxicity tests are
available, however, most regions follow EPA's acute aquatic toxicity manual
(EPA/600/4-90/027F). The test protocol consists of simply placing test organisms
in 100% storm water samples and laboratory control water.
Water quality parameters and survival are then monitored daily for the duration
of the test. Results are expressed as the final percent survival rate in the
storm water sample. The most commonly used test organism is the fathead minnow
(Pimephales promelas). Water fleas, (either Ceriodaphnia
dubia or Daphnia pulex) or other fish may be required in a 48 or 96 hour test.
Please check with local regulators or the NPDES permit regarding which protocol is required.SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Sample volume is one gallon for most tests. Some fish, such as rainbow trout and sticklebacks, require a five gallon sample. Sample hold time is 36 hours. Samples should be kept cold (4oC) prior
to and during shipment to the laboratory. Please notify laboratory prior to
shipping. Call for a cost quote and additional information. Our number is (805) 650-0546.
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