The toxicity of sublethal lead concentrations for the woodlouse, Porcellio laevis (Crustacea, Isopoda)

Abstract

 The effects of sublethal concentrations of lead nitrate on the terrestrial isopod Porcellio laevis were studied experimentally under controlled conditions over a period of 8 weeks. Changes in body mass were recorded. Avoidance-behaviour studies were undertaken to determine whether P. laevis can detect and possibly avoid lead in the environment. P. laevis was affected negatively by the presence of lead nitrate and showed a loss in body mass. More than 86% of the total body burden of lead was compartmentalized in the hepatopancreas. The isopods were capable of avoiding leaves contaminated with 200 mg kg^–1 lead nitrate in behavioural tests but did not avoid leaves contaminated with a higher concentration.