Bioaccumulation of heavy metals by freshwater insect larvae

Abstract

Data on heavy metal accumulation by four families of freshwater insect larvae were pooled from the literature. Caddisflies (Hydropsychidae), stoneflies (Perlodidae), and mayflies (Ephemeridae and Ecdyonuridae) were investigated to determine the degree by which they accumulate or regulate Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cd from sediment and aqueous sources as shown by correlation and regression analyses. For many of the relationships investigated, too few data were available upon which to base firm interpretations. Caddisflies were found to accumulate Pb, regulate Zn, and regulate Cu to 100 μg/g, beyond which net accumulation begins. Stoneflies accumulate Pb and regulate Zn. Ephemeridae have weak accumulating relationships with aqueous Pb and Cu and with sediment-bound Zn. Ecdyonuridae accumulate Zn, regulate Cu at 50 μg/g, and have a weak relationship with sediment-bound Pb. © Springer-Verlag 1998.