Objective
a) To characterize, identify and quantify algal blooms, with particular emphasis to the phytoplanktonic species producing toxins in fresh and marine waters.
b) To introduce analytical quality control and assurance by improving measurement quality and harmonizing measurement methods adopted by the laboratories of the mediterranean Member Countries.
Progress to end 1990
a) The JRC has promoted in close collaboration with scientists of five Member States the development of a joint European project on microphyte toxins : the MITO project
The following priority topics have been decided:
- Flow cytometry : To develop fast and easy-to-use systems for the detection, enumeration and characterization of phytoplanktonic populations at the cellular level and to detect changes in the population structure associated with environmental factors.
- Aquatic biotoxins : To develop alternative, sensitive, convenient probes for the measurement of toxins.
- Algal physiology : To achieve an understanding of the physiology of the algal blooms and of their "weak points", that could then be used to prevent and/or eliminate them.
- Remote sensing : Development of a "patrol" network able to detect changes in the algal population leading to a bloom, and, once that bloom is established, to warn of its movement, and of changes in intensity and toxicity.
b) A Steering Committee of Mediterranean Country representatives has been established and an activity programme defined. This consists of a number of laboratory intercomparisons on critical environmental pollutants.
First order priority pollutants are mercury and arsenic in the inorganic and PCBs and other persistent organochlorine compounds in the organic field.
First test materials have been prepared. They include tuna fish muscle, two mussel tissues and one macro algae material. In the framework of a bilateral PERPA Athens-JRC Ispra project field test in the Lake Vegoritis (greece) and data comparison of multiprobe devices have been performed. Items of interest were trace metals; both total and species, in the sediments, nutrient elements in the water and in-situ measurement of physico-chemical parameters such as pH, conductivity, oxygen concentration, etc.
Detailed description of work foreseen in 1991 (expected results)
a) Field experiments, coupled with modelling studies, have been proposed to provide adequate data to construct a useful tool for the prediction of toxic blooms.The test-sites are : the North-Adriatic Sea and the Ebro delta. Field surveys will be performed in connection with local environmental agencies.
Flow cytometry and remote sensing will be employed.
b) Laboratory intercomparisons will be evaluated and according to the results continued.
Feasibility studies for QA/QC determination of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds in surface water and pesticides in drinking water.
Sampling quality assessment for trace metals in seawater in cooperation with the University of Venice.
Extension of ongoing joint programme JRC-Italian Ministry of the Environment (intercalibrations RIDEP 1/89 and 2/90).
Short description of evolution of work in 1992
a) Continuation of the studies and their reorientation according to the results obtained in 1991.
b) The activities on interlaboraty comparisons and the field studies will continue according to the results obtained and the requests from the Member Countries.
Topic(s)
Data not availableCall for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
Data not availableCoordinator
21020 Ispra
Italy