The combined effects of DOC and salinity on the accumulation and toxicity of copper in mussel larvae.

The biotic ligand model (BLM) is widely used to predict the toxicity of metals. There are two main principles underlying this model: 1) the concentration at the biotic ligand (BL) is directly related to the adverse effects and 2) the concentration at the BL depends on the dissolved metal concentration and the water chemistry. The latter determines the complexation of the metals with dissolved organic carbon (DOC), anions or other ligands and the competition of the metals with cations at the BL. However, recent studies indicate that in marine or estuarine environments, a changing salinity (ion concentration) can also affect metal toxicity by influencing the physiology of organisms.