The use of a biological early warning system to minimize risks associated with drinking water sources and wastewater discharges

摘要

Although classical bioassays have traditionally been used to detect a toxic condition, the information obtained is typically based on discrete samples which may or may not be representative of a toxic event. For the purpose of on-line monitoring, chemical sensors are often used. Continuous automated biomonitors, on the other hand, are capable of generating reliable, sensitive, and rapid information about water quality. The focus of this research effort was (1) to test the sensitivity and reliability of one such automated to operate as a credible screening tool, and (2) to evaluate the biomonitor's performance both in the laboratory and while operating on-line at raw water intakes of drinking water plants.