NWU Institutional Repository

Assessing the ecotoxicity of gold mine tailings utilizing earthworm and microbial assays

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Date

Authors

Van Coller-Myburgh, Charné
Van Rensburg, Leon
Maboeta, Mark

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Springer

Abstract

Problems associated with mining are the disposal of wastes on tailing disposal facilities (TDFs). The aim of this study was to determine the ecotoxicity of gold mine tailings by using earthworm bioassays, earthworm biomarkers and enzymatic analyses. End points included changes in biomass, reproduction, lysosomal membrane stability, tissue metal concentrations, and selected enzymatic activities. Results indicated high concentrations of Ni in the material as well as bioaccumulation of lead and arsenic in the earthworm body tissue after exposure. Enzymatic activity was higher in revegetated tailings than in unrehabilitated tailings. It was concluded that TDF and surrounding areas have an acidic pH which affects earthworms and metal bioavailability. Soil enzymatic activities were a sensitive indicator of metal pollution in mining areas. Growth, reproduction and lysosomal membrane stability of earthworms have also been shown to be sensitive end points to assess the ecotoxic effects of gold TDF

Description

Citation

Van Coller-Myburgh, C. et al. 2015. Assessing the ecotoxicity of gold mine tailings utilizing earthworm and microbial assays. Water, air and soil pollution, 226(218):1–10. [http://rd.springer.com/journal/11270#AboutSection]

Endorsement

Review

Supplemented By

Referenced By