Determination of Speciation and Bioavailability of Copper in the Lake Modrac With Geochemical Biotic Ligand Model (BLM)

Abstract

The results of investigation of  inorganic and organic speciation of copper compounds  in  the lake Modrac, using the geochemical equilibrium model  BLM (Biotic Ligand Model; USEPA 2007) and other geochemical models are presented, as well as toxicity and bioavailability of copper compounds in the lake Modrac for chosen biotic ligand of fish fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). Speciation and bioavailability of copper complexes was investigated and toxicity levels for chosen biotic ligand determined. The influence of water chemistry on copper toxicity is predominant, and application of sophisticated BLM model enables the prediction of toxicity and bioavailability of copper.