Response of the Native Springtail Parisotoma insularis to Diesel Fuel–Contaminated Soils Under Field-Realistic Exposure Conditions at Subantarctic Macquarie Island

A critical effect concentration (CEC) of 48 mg/kg for diesel fuel was established for the native springtail species Parisotoma insularis, demonstrating its sensitivity to fuel contamination regardless of soil organic content. This is the first study to derive such data for a subantarctic springtail, providing essential insights for remediation efforts and soil quality guideline values on Macquarie Island and beyond. The research involved collecting intact soil cores along an organic carbon gradient, spiking them with diesel to mimic field conditions, and assessing springtail response. These findings are pivotal for risk assessment and environmental management in subantarctic regions affected by fuel spills.

Mooney, T. J., Wasley, J., Raymond, B., Andrew, N. R., & King, C. K. (2019). Response of the Native Springtail Parisotoma insularis to Diesel Fuel–Contaminated Soils Under Field-Realistic Exposure Conditions at Subantarctic Macquarie Island. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management, 15(4), 565–574. https://doi.org/10.1002/ieam.4148