Effects of Soil Properties on Cadmium Toxicity to Folsomia candida (Collembola)

Abstract

The study was endeavored to investigate the effects of soil properties on the acute and chronic cadmium (Cd) toxicities to Folsomia candida (Collembola F. candida). Results of the present study indicated that 10% lethal concentrations (LC10) in a period of 7 days were ranged from 68.6 to > 1000 mg/kg Cd. Soil Cd concentrations that halve F. candida reproductions (EC50, 28 days) were ranged from 41.4 to 146.8 mg/kg. Stepwise regression analysis between the thresholds of Cd toxicity and soil properties revealed that the pH and organic matter (OM) were two fundamental factors for the assessment of biological threats posed by Cd. The exchangeable Cd was mainly affected by soil pH. The reproduction inhibition and adult mortality ratios of F. candida were positively correlated with soil exchangeable Cd. The development of a comprehensive pedotransfer function based on pH and OM values would be suitable for accurately assessing the biological risks arising from Cd contamination.