The concepts of bioaccumulation and biomagnification are often confused. The former is the increase in the concentration of a fat soluble toxin within the tissues of organism; the latter describes the increase int hat toxin as it moves up through a food chain. Whereas water soluble toxins will simply be excreted, fat-soluble toxins remain within the tissues and organs of an organism so that when that organism is eaten, the consumer ingests the toxin as well. Tertiary consumers, such as Bald Eagles and other birds of prey are especially vulnerable to the effects of biomagnification. This activity will demonstrate the concepts of bioaccumulation and biomagnification using the classic example of DDT, as well as, review how energy is transferred through the food chain.
We will replicate the process of bioaccumulation and biomagnification through a simulation activity exposing trophic levels to DDT.
I will summarize what I learned in this lab and describe if the purpose of the lab was achieved.