Automated biomonitoring using real time movement analysis of Euglena gracilis

An automated biomonitoring system for early warning of pollutants in aquati c environments is described and characterized. The system uses sublethal ch anges in the movement behavior of the figellate Euglena gracilis as biologi cal endpoints. The movement is determined by real time image analysis. All parameters describing motility, velocity, orientation, and form of the cell s are calculated during measurement, and changes of these parameters are in terpreted as effect. By automatic dilution of the water sample, dose-effect relationships can be recorded automatically. A total measurement procedure , including control and sample measurement and filling and rinsing of the s ystem, typically requires 8 min. Measurements with different organic and in organic toxic compounds were performed and the calculated EC50 values compa red with literature data for the bioluminescence test with Vibrio fischeri. Also, measurements with waste water samples from different industrial plan ts were performed. The fast response time, the small size, the reliable ima ge analysis system, the calculation of several endpoints, and the automatic measuring procedure are major advantages compared to other biological test systems. (C) 2001 Academic Press.