Use of the Mixed Flask Culture (MFC) Microcosm Protocol to Estimate the Survival and Effects of Microorganisms Added to Freshwater Ecosystems

摘要

Live microorganisms present a special problem when assessing their effects in natural systems. Some determination of the probability of the test organisms' survival in the wild must be made and laboratory microcosms offer an appropriate solution. The report describes a microcosm test procedure based on the concept that many ecosystem processes are independent of species composition. As long as suitable groups are represented in the microcosms, these processes will occur and a viable, self-sustaining community will develop. Using the procedures outlined in this protocol 3 tests of chemicals and 4 tests with micoorganisms have been completed . The report presents the procedures and provides examples of data from experiments.