Non-target arthropods - aged residue studies and semi-field studies

Ecotox has unrivalled experience of testing non-target arthropods in field cages or enclosures (semi-field studies)  Such studies give a realistic spray deposit as well as allowing for weathering and natural exposure of test organisms.  The species tested in semi-field studies are typically the same as those used in the laboratory.

Aged residue studies involve collection of field treated crop material and exposure of key organisms to realistically aged residues at intervals over time in laboratory bioassays.  They are used to determine the duration of toxicity to relevant species given the intended use pattern of a product.  Assays can be conducted in the laboratory in Devon or at locations adjacent to field sites throughout Europe.  Results demonstrate that natural populations could re-colonise a crop if they were to immigrate from refugia.