What are the advantages of this test method over current methods?
Most aquatic research organisms are much more difficult to use and often die from the testing process, regardless of toxicity. The procedures are time consuming and detailed, there can be variability from laboratory to laboratory and from technician to technician. The contaminant testing process with species other than dinoflagellates takes three to seven days to complete. Therefore, test results using other species are often inaccurate and must be repeated. In comparison, marine plankton (dinoflagellates) are easy to set up and testing requires minimal laboratory space or equipment. Based on experience as well as in-field use, the test results can be achieved in 24 hours. Minimal training is needed to perform toxicity testing. As a result, large areas can be screened in a relatively short period of time, and for less cost than typical laboratory testing methods.
