A bioassay is a method used to generate toxicological information to determine the potential environmental impact that a specific material (e.g. waste water, stormwater, dredged material, solid or liquid waste, chemical product) may have on the aquatic environment.

We frequently are asked to perform a "fish bioassay," however; we offer many different kinds of bioassay tests. If you are testing a sample to determine how best to dispose of a sample, a hazardous waste bioassay is most likely required. Otherwise, the testing would likely fall under NPDES permitting requirements.

Samples should be transported on ice and with a Chain of Custody form. Samples should arrive at the laboratory less than 6.0°C upon receipt. The Chain of Custody form for the Aquatic Toxicology department is located here

The size and type of container used is highly dependent on the test, or tests, that will be performed on a sample.

Hazardous waste bioassays require a minimum of 100 mL of liquid samples, or 100 grams of solid material. Generally liquids are sampled in 125 mL amber glass bottles and solid materials are collected in 16 oz wide-mouth glass jars. For lighter materials, such as paper, filters or wipes, please provide 100 grams in a clean plastic bag.

Effluent samples to be tested for NPDES purposes vary in the required volume. Please contact our staff regarding the required volume.

For hazardous waste samples, there is no hold time requirement.

For effluent and ambient water samples, the sample hold time is 36-hours following collection of a grab sample or the end of a composite. After a sample is used initially, the hold time then extends an additional 72-hours from the time of first use.

For hazardous waste tests, no advanced notice is required unless a guaranteed 5-day TAT is required.

For effluent and ambient water tests, one to two weeks is preferred, however, the laboratory can support our client's needs with shorter notice (e.g. stormwater testing).