Assessing Geotactic and Phototactic Responses in Parhyale hawaiensis as Indicators of Environmental Pollutant Exposure v1

This protocol presents a series of cost-effective behavioural assays tailored to evaluate the sub-lethal impacts of environmental pollutants on the marine amphipod Parhyale hawaiensis. Our methods focus on geotactic (gravity-induced movement) and phototactic (light-induced movement) responses to provide critical insights into the neurotoxic and physiological effects of various contaminants on aquatic organisms. The assays described here provide a standardised, cost-effective, and accessible approach for ecotoxicological research, supporting a broad spectrum of studies and environmental monitoring efforts. Their implementation enhances reproducibility and contributes to a deeper understanding of pollutant effects on marine ecosystems.