Aquatic Toxicology and Ecophysiology Laboratory, Department of Marine Sciences, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria
Chukwu, L.O., Aquatic Toxicology and Ecophysiology Laboratory, Department of Marine Sciences, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria
The toxicities of spent engine oil and a Nigerian brand of detergent (Omo), and their binary mixture in ratio of 9:1 were evaluated against hermit crab, Clibanarius africanus and periwinkle, Tympanotfonus fuscatus in laboratory bioassays. The interactions between binary mixture showed significant variations from the action of the individual constituent toxicants when acting singly. On the basis of synergistic ratio (SRs) and concentration-addition models, the relationship between binary mixture. (9:1) of spent engine oil and detergent against C africanus and T fuscatus were in conformity with the models of synergism (S.R=4.12; RTU=3.95 and S.R=1.21; RTU=10 respectively) indicating that the toxicity of the constituent toxicants in the mixtures were enhanced. The importance of the results obtained from the joint action toxicity evaluations in setting effective and environmentally safe limits for control and management of petroleum pollutants is discussed. Copyright © Enviromedia.