Determination of Lethal and Effective Concentrations (LCx and ECx) of Hydrophobic Organic Contaminants in Parhyale hawaiensis v1

This protocol outlines a robust methodology for assessing the acute toxicity of selected Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the tropical marine amphipod P. hawaiensis. The procedure integrates standard OECD guidelines with adaptations specific to marine species and includes sex-specific 96-hour static-renewal tests to determine LCx and ECx values. The protocol covers all aspects, from initial range-finding tests to the final selection of PAH concentrations, addressing potential sex-based differences in PAH susceptibility, an area often underexplored in ecotoxicological studies. Advanced statistical analyses and stringent quality control measures are incorporated to ensure high reproducibility and reliability. This protocol is designed to enhance our understanding of PAH toxicity in marine environments, thereby contributing to evidence-based environmental management strategies.