E C O T O X

ECOTOXicology Database System

AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

Prepared for

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Office of Research and Development 

National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory

Mid-Continent Ecology Division (MED)

Duluth, Minnesota

By

Computer Sciences Corporation

Duluth, Minnesota 55804

Contract 68-W01-032, Task Order #024

DECEMBER 2002
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 ii

A. OVERVIEW OF ECOTOX ..................................................... A1

1. Introduction to Review of Literature ..................................... A1

2. Literature Reviewer Training ........................................... A1

Training Sequence ................................................... A1

Measures of Competency for Trained Reviewers ......................... A3

Steps in the Quality Assurance Process ................................. A3

3. General Coding Information ............................................ A4

Overview ........................................................... A4

Coding Practices ................................................... A5

B. AQUIRE CODING GUIDELINES ............................................... B1

1. Quality Assurance Parameters .......................................... B1

QA Date/Initials ...................................................... B1

Publication Reference Number, Author, Year ............................. B1

Total Tests .......................................................... B1

Reviewer/Date ...................................................... B1

2. Test Chemical Parameters .............................................. B1

Chemical Name (TEST) .............................................. B2

Chemical Grade (GRADE) ............................................ B3

Chemical Purity (PURITY) ............................................. B3

Chemical Formulation (FORM) ......................................... B3

Chemical Comments (CHARACTERISTICS) ............................. B3

Radiolabel (RADIOLABEL) ........................................... B3

CAS Number (CAS NUMBER) ........................................ B4

Solvent Chemical (S/V) ............................................... B4

3. Test Organism Parameters ............................................. B5

Species (LATIN NAME/SPECIES NUMBER) ............................ B5

Organism Comments (ORGANISM CHARACTERISTICS) ................. B5

Control Type (CNTL) ................................................. B7

4. Test Condition Parameters ............................................. B7

Media Type (FW, SW) ................................................ B7

Test Location (LAB, NR, FIELDN, FIELDA, FIELDU) ...................... B8

Experimental Design (EXP DESIGN) ................................... B8

5. Test Result Parameters ................................................ B9

Endpoint (ENDPOINT) ............................................... B10

Figure 1. Hierarchy of coding tests in AQUIRE ...................... B12

Assigned Endpoint (ASSIGNED ENDPOINT) ........................... B16

Trend (TREND) ..................................................... B16

Effect (EFFECT) ................................................... B17

EFFECT HIERARCHY .............................................. B18

Response Site (RESP SITE) .................................... B18

Combining Response Site ..................................... B18
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 iii

Effect Measurement (MEASURE) ..................................... B19

EE_Comment (EE_REMARK) ........................................ B20

Effect % (EFCT %) .................................................. B21

Combining Effect Percent ..................................... B21

Statistical Significance (SIG) ......................................... B22

Combining of Statistics ........................................ B24

Significance Level (LEVEL) .......................................... B25

Combining of Level ........................................... B25

Other Effects (OTHER EFCT) ......................................... B25

Test Result Examples ............................................... B26

6. Concentration Parameters ............................................ B27

Concentration Type (CONC TYPE) .................................... B27

Concentration Types and Definitions ............................ B28

Ionic Fraction (ION) ................................................. B29

Effect Concentration (CONC) ......................................... B29

Bioconcentration Value (BCF) ........................................ B30

Exposure Type (EXP TYP) ........................................... B31

Chemical Analysis Method (M/U) ...................................... B32

7. Test Duration Parameters ............................................. B32

Exposure Duration (EXP TIME) ....................................... B32

8. Water Chemistry Parameters .......................................... B33

9. Remark Parameters ................................................... B34

10. Field Testing Parameters ............................................. B34

Habitat Comment (HABITAT CODE) ................................... B34

Substrate (SUBSTRATE) ............................................ B34

Water Depth (DEPTH) ............................................... B35

Geographic Location (LOCATION) .................................... B35

Geographic Code (ST/PR/COUNTRY) ................................. B35

Longitude/Latitude (LAT/LONG) ....................................... B35

Application Type (AP TYPE) .......................................... B35

Application Frequency (FREQUENCY) ................................. B36

Application Rate (AP RATE) ......................................... B36

Chemical Half-life (HALF-LIFE) ....................................... B36

Application Season (AP SEASON) .................................... B36

Application Date (AP DATE) ......................................... B36

11. References ......................................................... B37
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 A1

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

A. OVERVIEW OF ECOTOX

1. Introduction to Review of Literature

The data elements included in ECOTOX encompass standard test parameters typically reported

within a publication. Each database record contains information about the exposure and test

conditions. Specific parameters include the test chemical, species, and endpoint or effect

concentration. 

The included literature is identified throughstandardized bibliographic retrievals. Each publication

is evaluated and the applicable data is encoded by trained literature reviewers. The data encoded

are evaluated according to existing standard test methodssuchas thosefromthe AmericanSociety

for Testing and Materials (1996), Code of Federal Regulations (1992), and the American Public

HealthAssociation(1992). Eachtest included in ECOTOX is assigned a documentationcode that

indicates the amount of supporting methods and results documentation available in the original

scientific publication.

Note: Each publication included into the AQUIRE database must meet the five minimal criteria for

acceptance (i.e. chemical, species, concentration, durationand effect) . If the paper is missing one

or more of these criteria ECOTOX does not search other sources

to obtain the missing data piece(s). Sources such as author communications and referencing

another workto obtainone ofthe five criteria is allowed for specific risk assessment/criteria projects

(e.g. EcoSSL or CAD) and must be specified by the EPA Database Coordinator.

2. Literature Reviewer Training 

Training Sequence

The training sequence is designed to develop consistent, accurate, and versatile literature

reviewers. This is accomplished through anintensive period of literature review, interactive quality

assurance procedures, and consultation with other ECOTOX database personnel.

The scope of the six month intensive training period encompasses the following areas:

C endpoint toxicity test review (one month);

C effect only toxicity test review (two months);

C bioconcentration study review (one month); 

C field study review (one month); and

C in-depth training within the areas listed above (one month).

The personnelavailable to support the reviewer include the data coordinator and trained ECOTOX

reviewers. The following documentation and materials are used for training:
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 A2

• ECOTOX Standard Operating Procedures ( 2001, www.epa.gov/ecotox under

“download files”);

C Fundamentals of Aquatic Toxicology (Rand (Ed) 1995);

C American Society for Testing and Methods; (ASTM, 1996);

C Selected toxicity literature publications; and

C AQUIRE and TERRETOX coding sheets.

The reviewer initially reviews the ECOTOX Standard Operating Procedures: Coding Guidelines,

applicable publications listedinthe referencesectionfor eachof the databases, applicable USEPA

Standard EvaluationProcedures and ASTM guidelines. The primaryemphasis is to understand the

minimum criteria that characterize acceptable toxicity tests. These criteria must be reported in the

toxicity publications selected for review in order to qualify for inclusion in the ECOTOX database.

The acceptance criteria are:

C Name of the test chemical; 

C Name of the test organism; 

C Effect of the test chemical on the organism;

C Test chemical concentration or application rate; 

C Test duration (except for abstracts and non-English publications).

The secondary emphasis is to develop the ability to distinguish between exposure types (lethal,

sublethal, bioconcentration). The reviewer is trained to recognize whether standard methods are

reported for test methodologies and for the test endpoint. The reviewer is also trained to identify

tests which are not applicable to ECOTOX.

Once the general introductory materials are read, the standard training guidelines introduce the

reviewer to each category of toxicity literature. Information specific to areas of acute, chronic and

bioconcentrationliterature is discussed in subsequent sections of this chapter. The guidelines can

be tailored to the specific areas of expertise and strengths that each person brings to the project.

Threeprimaryelementsare emphasized in eachcomponent of the training sequence.The standard

training sequence is:

1. Example review: Examination of previously encoded toxicity literature. The trainee

reviews between 5 to 10 toxicitypublications and compares eachwith its associated

pre-completed coding sheet.

2. Independentreview:Thetraineeindependently reviews a minimum of 10 to 20 toxicity

publications. All 10 - 20 reviews are qualityassured via areviewofthe publicationand

coding by the data coordinator. Inconsistent coding practices are resolved with the

trainee. The trainee continues to review additional toxicity publications and the level

of QA decreases from 100 percent to 10 percent as the reviewer's consistency and

proficiency increase. 
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 A3

3. Measure of proficiency: Established ECOTOX qualityassurance procedures require

a close reviewof all reviewed publications by the data coordinator to ensure accurate

reviewing is consistent with current test methodologies and SOPs. All discrepancies

identified are noted by the data coordinator and discussed with the trainee.

4. Afulltimereviewerbegins the training sequence reviewing 20 publications per month.

This amount increases until a level of 35 publications per month is attained. The

average time estimated per review at the beginning of the training sequence is 1.5

hours per publication. The time should decrease to one hour per publication. A part

time reviewer’s training expectations will be decreased accordingly.

Measures of Competency for Trained Reviewers

The qualityassurance process is anongoing component ofliteraturereviewing.Emphasisisplaced

on qualityassurance during the initial collaborative training period, during the 10 percent replicate

reviewprocess, and throughconsultationwith publications in the field ofaquatic toxicology. As part

of this process, consistency and concurrence between the document abstractors is attained. 

The tenpercent replicate reviewprocess assures data integrity and promotes routine evaluationof

coding practices. Throughthis training process, strengths and weaknesses in the data abstractor's

expertiseareidentifiedand specific programs are established to enhance expertisewhereneeded.

Such programs include consultation with ECOTOX staff, toxicology publications and the EPA

Database Manager, as needed. Evaluationof replicate reviews, which is performed on 10% of all

coded references, is used to flag and correct any major discrepancies between replicates. In

additiona screening of all completed coding sheets to ensure consistencyand completeness prior

to data entry is required. Parameters routinely screened include water chemistry, test organism

descriptors, calculated endpoints and total test numbers.

Steps in the Quality Assurance Process

1. Ten percent of the reviewed articles from each abstractor are randomly identified by

the data coordinator.Informationconcerning the numberofpublications isenteredinto

a Lotus 1-2-3 file, maintained on the data coordinator's computer. The spreadsheet

tracks the QA process and calculates the percent of the publications subjected to

qualityassurance for eachreviewer (Table 1). The original reviewer's code sheet for

the chosenpublicationisplacedinthe "Double Reviewand QA" file folder maintained

bythe data coordinator. An“ECOTOX 10% Tracking Form" sheetis maintainedinthe

folder and filled out as articles are received ( Attachment 1.). The spreadsheet file is

also updated.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 A4

Table 1. ECOTOX 10% TRACKING SHEET EXAMPLE 

Date Rec Doc # Tot Rec’d # QAed 2nd Rev 2nd Comp Coord

Complete

d

11/30/93 5342 8 1 JACKY 11/30/93 ANNE 01/15/94

12/14/93 6808 10 1 AMY

2. The publication is given to a second reviewer for independent review. After

completion of the second review, the data coordinator gives the coding sheets and

paper to the EPA Database Manager who compares both reviewer’s coding sheets,

documents the differences (ifany) betweenreviewers, archives the informationonthe

"ECOTOX 10% Replicate Review" form (Attachment 1.), thenreturns the form to the

reviewers for comment.Thereviewers note discrepancies byeither agreeing with the

EPA Database Manager’s comments or expressing their differing opinions on the

form. After the replicate review form is returned to the EPA Database Manager,

discussions are held with both reviewers to resolve any remaining differences.

Discrepancies due to differencesininterpretationare resolved by the EPA Database

Manager. Errors caused by incomplete Coding Guideline documentation are

identified and modifications are made to the document.

3. Uponcompletionof the reviewprocess, the data coordinatorchecksto makesure the

originalreviewer's coding sheet contains the correct data, notes completiondate on

the "ECOTOX 10% Tracking Form" and in the spreadsheet, and forwards the coding

sheet to data entry. The ECOTOX 10% Replicate Review forms are filed with the

double review coding sheets in the ECOTOX Reviewed files.

3. General Coding Information

Overview

ECOTOX is comprised of two databases - AQUIRE and TERRETOX. The AQUIRE database is

comprised entirely of aquatic data whereas the TERRETOX database is comprised of terrestrial

data. These databases were developed independently but are merging together under the

ECOTOX framework. Across the two databases, the common data elements for each test

contained inECOTOX are grouped by chemical, organism, exposure conditions, and effects. Test

chemical parameters describe the toxicant and any associated carrier; the CAS registry number;

and the grade,purityand/orcomposition.Thetestorganismparametersinclude the Scientific name,

a species number and lifestage,source,and/or characteristics ofthe organism. The test conditions

identifythe testlocation;exposure type,time,and conditions; and any controlparameters.Effectand

endpointparameters consist of codes to define lethal,sublethal,orresidue effectsand/orendpoints.

The corresponding chemical concentration or dose is reported for both exposure and observation
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 A5

concentrations, if reported. Available data are extracted from the text, tables, and graphs of each

publication.

Based onthe informationcoded for the preceding categories, a documentation code is calculated

foreachpiece of data inECOTOX.The documentationcode provides anindexofthe completeness

of methods documentation and results presentation in the original publication.

The following sections are designed as anoverviewof the guidelines for reviewers. The information

presented in this section identifies the common and unique attributes of each database. Each

section heading corresponds to a data element (if the data element is unique to one or two of the

databases, this is noted following the sectionheading). The unique attributes of eachdatabase are

described in the specific coding guidelines for AQUIRE and for TERRETOX.Any exceptions from

theseguidelinesmustbeauthorized by the EPA Database Manager and subsequentlydocumented

in these guidelines.

Coding Practices

This sectionprovides anoverviewof the generalcoding practices used for the ECOTOX database.

These practices have been devised to ensure accuracy and consistency in transcribing data from

the original publication to the final data file.

C A unique coding sheetis used for eachof the independent databases - AQUIRE and

TERRETOX.

C Each reported test exposure (or in some cases each unique endpoint) requires a

separate line onthe coding sheet. If manytestsarereported thatare conducted under

similar conditions, ditto marks are placed in the field or remarks area where the

information is identical to the line above.

C Endpoints, effect or exposure concentrations/doses, controldata and exposuretimes

reported in graphic format are coded. 

Data extracted from graphs are presented as range or <,> values, unless an exact

value is clearly presented. If the formatof the graph does not allow extrapolation, the

availability of such data is noted in REMARK, i.e., “/control data graphed//”. Data

extracted from a graph must be accompanied by a comment in the REMARK field

"/from graph//". When there is a discrepancy between data presented in the text or

table and data presented in a graph, the paper is to be forwarded to the EPA

Database Manager for a finaldeterminationof whichdata point will be included in the

database.

C Toensure completeness and accuracy, if informationis unavailable for a coding field,

the field must still be completed using either NR (not reported) or occasionally, NA

(not applicable).
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 A6

C To ensure accuracy in transcribing data values, all numbers between zero and one

should be reported with a zero preceding the decimalpoint (e.g., 0.5 not .5). Periods

are only used to represent a decimal point, never an abbreviation.

C Toensure consistencyas well as accuracy, report the significant figures as the author

reports them. Do not add or round off numbers. Report only the actualvalues, do not

code variance information (e.g. +/-).

C Whencoding numbers do notuse commas. Theycanbe mistaken for decimalpoints

or numbers.

C Use “per” or a colon(:)instead of a slash (/) to designate ratios. Reserve the slashfor

designating remarks or units.

C The REMARK field is a text field which contains additional information about a coding

field.The REMARK field is used whenthe informationnecessaryfor coding a field does

notfitin the space provided.A complete list ofremarkidentifiersisdocumentedin the

appendices for each of the databases.

• When making a remark, use the appropriate codes from the ECOTOX code list. If a

codedoesnotexistforacertainchemical, enzyme,devise,technique,etc., do notuse

the author’s abbreviation. Write out the full name of the term and submit to the

ECOTOX staff to determine if a new code should be created.

• All coding sheets with the same reference number and the same chemical CAS

number are stapled together in the upper left corner.

• Coding sheets are generally double sided. If any tests are coded on the back of the

coding sheet, the “continued on back” text located in the lower right corner of the

coding sheet is highlighted in yellow.

• Whena reviewer has completed the reviewof a paper, theymust write theirlast name

preceded with “R=” on the bottom center of the paper.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B1

B. AQUIRE CODING GUIDELINES

A unique coding sheet is used for each of the independent databases - copies of the AQUIRE

coding sheets are located at the end of this section. For AQUIRE, field (natural and artificial) tests

are coded on the AQUIRE Field Coding Sheet; all other studies are coded on the AQUIRE Lab

Coding Sheet.

1. Quality Assurance Parameters

QA Date/Initials

The personconducting the first QualityAssurance Check enters the date of the QA check and their

initials.

Publication Reference Number, Author, Year

The Reference Number (Ref #) is the unique number which identifies a particular publication. This

number, assigned by the data entry program, provides the link between the data entered and the

originalpublication. On the coding sheet, enter the reference numberlocated in the upperright-hand

corner of the hard copy of the publication, the last name of the first author, and the publicationyear.

For abstracts, use the publication year of the abstract source.

Total Tests

The totaltests encoded for a publicationare recorded by the reviewer. The totaltest number equals

the total number of individual effect records that are coded for each publication. 

Reviewer/Date

The reviewer’s last name is writtenhere.The date onwhichthe publicationwas reviewed should be

entered in the format of month/day/year.

2. Test Chemical Parameters

AQUIRE is catalogued bythe toxicant tested using the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry

number. If a CAS registrynumberis notavailable throughstandard sources the toxicity data cannot

be included in AQUIRE. Additional toxicants not included in AQUIRE are water chemistry effects

(e.g., pH), complex effluents, and chemical mixtures. 

Chemicalmixtures maybe interpreted broadly. For example,if a pesticide is a mixture of two active

ingredients, each may have a separate CAS number. If the formulation has a CAS number, the

chemicalreported for AQUIRE is the formulation. If the exposure is based ontwo metalcompounds

but the effect is based on one ion, e.g., copper sulfate and copper chloride and Cu is the toxicant,

code copper as the test chemical and report the two compounds in chemical CHARACTERISTICS.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B2

For in situ exposures where the exposure is by default an exposure to a chemical mixture; code

residue effects or endpoints (BCF) only. No other effects or endpoints are strictly attributable to a

single chemical inthe same wayas a residue concentration. Data for chemicals in the mixture with

reported water concentrations and residue effects should be coded. The only situation in which a

mixture exposure can be coded is when an in situ field study is conducted. The test organisms

must be transplanted from a clean source and caged in the polluted source. The duration and

concentration must be provided. When the author provides only the species age for the duration,

it is unacceptable to code.

Effect responses from exposures to hormones (e.g. estradiol, testosterone) are included in the

database. There are studies where the hormone is administered as a toxicant to observe the

andro/estrogenic effects. 

Studies involving carbondioxide (CO2)orozone (O3)as the toxicantare notcoded into the AQUIRE

database.

Nutrients such as phosphorus, nitrogen, potassium are coded for AQUIRE if the exposure system

is dosed rather thananambient exposure.Forexample,codephosphorus as anexposure chemical

if, in the given paper, all of the following are true:

C The phosphorus was added to the ecosystem ina direct discrete manner, i.e., code

"nylon mesh bags of Ca(H2PO4)2 placed in streams at beginning of test", do not

code "system may have received added phosphorus in overland runoff due to

fertilizersusedin nearbyagricultural operations".Aerialapplications areacceptable

if the other conditions are met.

C The concentrationin the water should be measured,or at a minimum, the application

rate should be available.Applicationrate maybecalculatedusing the flowvolumeand

the phosphorus-containing compound's dissolution rate.

C The effects of the phosphorus are tested ona biologicaltest organism; water quality

or chemical-fate only papers are not coded.

Effect responses from exposures to humic acid only are not coded for AQUIRE. Humic acids are

any various complex organic acids obtained from humus which are insoluble in acids and organic

solvents. However, tests that include an exposure with a toxicant and humic acid should not be

interpreted as a mixture. The humic acid information should be coded into the ORGANIC CARBON

field if the concentration is given and “Humic Acid Efcts” should be coded in the OTHER EFFECTS

field.

Example: The toxicant is Copper and Humic acid is added at 10 mg/l.

Code the concentration of Humic acid in the ORGANIC CARBON field as 10 mg/L HA.

Chemical Name (TEST)
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B3

Record the chemical name as it is reported in the publication; however, long chemical formulas or

names need not be coded if a common name is provided. For common names, record common

name in both the TEST field and the CHARACTERISTICS field;whenthe CAS numberis entered into the

system the 9CI Preferred Name will be assigned automatically. The TEST field on the coding sheet

is used for the convenience of the encoder in assigning the CAS number. If several names (e.g.,

trade names, synonyms) are used, note the other names and formula in parenthesis after the

recorded chemical name. 

TheCASnumberis assigned by locating the chemicalname in the chemicalcard file or in the online

index file (ECOCHEM). If the chemical name is not in the chemical card file or ECOCHEM, write

“No” near the CAS NUMBER field to clearly identify that verification is needed. The coding sheet will

be referred to ECOTOX staff for CAS number verificationas part of the qualityassurance process.

Chemical Grade (GRADE)

Record relevant chemical grade information in the GRADE field. (refer to ECOTOX Appendix B).

Chemical Purity (PURITY)

Record the numeric percentage information about the purity or active ingredient of the chemical in

the PURITY data field (e.g., if the author reports 97% purity, 97 would be entered into this data field.

PU for purity would be entered into the FORM data field (see CHEMICAL FORMULATION).

Chemical Formulation (FORM)

Record the chemicalformulationcodeforthe chemicalreported.Ifthereis more thanone formulation

code enter the code most closely related to the chemical purity, and enter the rest in the

CHARACTERISTICS field. (refer to ECOTOX Appendix C) 

Chemical Comments (CHARACTERISTICS)

Record relevant and specific chemical information, suchas tradenames,commonnames, isomers,

or extra formulation codes, but do not code lot numbers or product numbers (usually taken from

chemical catalogs). There are times when you will record the chemical name in both the TEST field

and the CHARACTERISTICS field. This occurs most frequently for pesticides where the common or

trade name is very simple while the chemical nomenclature is very complex. The purpose, during

reviewing, for the name in TEST field is to assist the reviewer in assigning a CAS number; during

data entry the name is replaced by a stored 9CI Preferred Name. The common name coded in

CHARACTERISTICS remains available for user access.

Radiolabel (RADIOLABEL)

If a radiolabeled chemical is tested, record the isotope, according to the ECOTOX Appendix D
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B4

codes, in the RADIOLABEL field. When the specific isotope is not reported,the field should be coded

with a slash ("/") and noted in the REMARK field (RADIO/no isotope reported//). When both

radiolabeledand unlabelledtestchemicals areusedin a test, report the radiolabel isotope and code

"labelled and unlabelled" in CHARACTERISTICS.

CAS Number (CAS NUMBER)

The Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Number of the toxicant is recorded in the CAS NUMBER

field. A standardized identification number and name for each chemical recorded in the database

is used for consistency. Toxicants included in the ECOTOX database are assigned a CAS registry

number and are referred to by the Ninth Collective Index (9CI) standard nomenclature. The CAS

number and 9CI name are stored in a chemical card file and in an online index file (ECOCHEM)

whichisavailable electronicallyfor screening CAS numbers and chemicalnamesusedinECOTOX.

If a hydrated form of a chemical is used in the paper, record the hydrated form as reported by the

authorin the TESTfield. However, record the CAS Number for the non-hydrated form of the chemical

in the CAS NUMBER field.

Example: Chemical cited in paper CuSO4 * 5H20 CAS# 7758998

 

TEST field CuSO4 * 5H20

CAS NUMBER field CAS# 7758987 (CuSO4)

Solvent Chemical (S/V)

If a solvent carrier isusedinthe test,the solvent chemicalfields are coded with the Solvent Chemical

(S/V), GRADE, PURITY, FORM, concentration (in CHARACTERISTICS) and CAS NUMBER. The CAS

numbers for common carriers are listed in ECOTOX Appendix A. 

Occasionally two or more separate carriers or solvents are used.If the publicationreports the ratio,

include this informationin the CHARACTERISTICS field.If the carrier or solvent is used for different test

chemicals but the use is not specifically described in the publication, code “as needed” in the

CHARACTERISTICS field.

If a carrier was notused,report as NR.Buffers used to controlthe pHof the test are notcoded.Acids

or bases that are added to change the pH ofa solutionin order to enable a metalto stay in solution

are not coded. Dietary feed content is not coded.

Occasionally, anauthor will present results data related to effect of the solvent on the test organism.

If a test concentration and results are reported for the solvent and there is a separate clean water

control, the solvent data should be coded on a separate coding sheet.

If an author states thatall solvent was evaporated prior to the studyor if a columncoating procedure

is described, the solvent is assumed to notbe incorporated into the studyand should coded as NR

in the S/V field.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B5

For instances where a chemical carrier does not have a CAS number and it is determined by the

chemical verification staff that it will never have a CAS number, the solvent will be entered in the

CHEMICAL COMMENTS field of the Chemical Name (TEST).

If the solvent does not have a CAS number and it is in the verificationprocess, data entry will enter

NR in the S/V field and enter a remark of CARRIER/solvent name and characteristics//. When the

CAS# is verified a search is made in the remarks for the chemical name and those records found

are modified.

Example: The solvent used is Atlox at 0.05 ul/l. There is no CAS# and it is in the verification process.

 Entered into REMARKS: CARRIER/ATLOX, 0.05 UL/L//

If an author presents results in which the test organism is exposed to multiple chemicals, it is

important to determine if the two chemicals constitute a mixture or if one of the chemicals is being

used as a carrier or solvent. A carrier is defined as an agent (other than water) in which the test

chemical is mixed to make it miscible with the dilution water before distribution to test chambers

(Rand, 1995). If the other chemical is not a carrier, “mixture” would be noted in OTHER EFCT.

Water should notbe coded as a solvent. A solvent is defined as an agent (other than water) in which

the testchemicalis mixed to make it miscible with dilutionwater beforedistributionto testchambers.

Solvents or carriers are used in toxicity tests where the concentrations of the test chemical are

extremely lowand a verysmall amount of test material must be added to the test chambers. (Rand,

1995)

3. Test Organism Parameters

Species (LATIN NAME/SPECIES NUMBER)

Record the species Scientific name as reported in the publication. A unique numberis assigned to

each ECOTOX species to aid in storage and retrieval. Reviewers locate the number for each test

organismfromtheCRITTERSspecies file and record this number onthe coding sheet. If the species

name reported in the publication is a synonym of a verified species, record the name from the

publication, draw a line through it and record the verified species name along with the species

number. If the species is not on the verified name list, write “No” near the Scientific name to clearly

identify that verification is needed. The coding sheet will be referred to ECOTOX staff for species

verification as part of the quality assurance process. Refer to Species Procedures for additional

information about the species data file and verification procedures. 

Field studies may report results for a target community (e.g. benthic macroinvertebrates) or for an

entire enclosed ecosystem (e.g. system-level primary productivity or respiration). If a community of

organisms was tested, be as specific as the author is about the species grouping.

Organism Comments (ORGANISM CHARACTERISTICS)
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B6

Report any general informationprovided about the initial conditionof the test organism. This includes

informationfor both the controland test organisms. Organism comments include informationsuchas

age, weight, length, developmental stage, sex, type of culture (eg., axenic) and/or initial cell

concentration (e.g. 1 E + 3 cells/ml or expo gro phase or log gro phase) to describe the organism

being tested. Each piece of information is separated by a comma. The value and range, if reported,

are recorded for each available parameter (e.g. 3 (2-4) g). However, deviations are not coded (e.g.

33 +- 4 mm is coded as 33 mm). Record strains, hybrids or taxonomic groupings, if reported. List

individual species Scientific names when 3 or fewer species are included within a grouping; when

more than 3 individual species are included within a grouping, code as “# species”.

Species = Plankton (#706) ORG CHARACTERISTICS = Daphnia magna, Daphnia pulex, and Bosmina sp

ORG CHARACTERISTICS = 4 zooplankton species

Standard terms used for recording organism length include standard length (SL), (e.g. 3.1 cm SL),

totallength(TL), fork length (FL), carapace length (CL), carapace width (CW), wetweight(wetwt),and

dry weight (dry wt).

Tests in which eggs are initially exposed, and the exposure continues through adulthood to the first

generation etc, are represented as "Egg” in ORGANISM CHARACTERISTICS and the stage of the

organism is recorded in the EE_REMARK field for the results reported.

Example: Exposed eggs resulting in mortality of fry

ORG CHARACTERISTICS: Egg EFCT: MOR MEASURE: MORT 

 EE REMARK: Fry

If the paper states that the organisms tested are both male and female, this characteristic does not

go into the ORGANISM CHARACTERISTICS field, because a sample assumes both sexes. However, if only

one sex is tested, then the sex is coded using the terms "male" or "female". 

If a paper reports results using organisms from a polluted source AND organisms from a non-polluted

source, only the non-polluted source test results are coded.No mentionof ‘non-polluted’ needs to be

presented in the ORGANISM CHARACTERISTICS field, but ‘polluted organisms’ should be entered into

OTHER EFCT data field. If data are presented for organisms from a polluted source and no other

concurrent data with organisms from a cleansource are presented,the reviewer should code the test

results, but enter ‘polluted organism’ in the ORGANISM CHARACTERISTICS data field.

If a paper reports that the organisms used for testing were diseased, “Diseased Organisms” is

entered into the EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN field. If the study was conducted on diseased organisms

compared to non-diseased organisms, the data from the non-diseased organism test is coded, but

the data from the diseased organisms is not. In this case, "Diseased Organism Test" is entered into

the OTHER EFCT field.

If a paper reports that the organisms used for the measurements were dead and it is unknown how

long the organisms have beendead,do notcode this data,but enter “dead organisms” in OTHER EFCT.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B7

If the studywas conducted ondead organisms compared to living organisms, the data from the living

organism is coded but the data from the dead organism test is not coded. In this case, dead

organism is entered into the OTHER EFCT field.

If some of the organisms tested are fed differing amounts and/or some of the organisms are not fed

during the studyand the authors are comparing the data (e.g.10organismsfed,10 organisms notfed

and/or some organisms fed 10 pellets and some organisms fed 5 pellets), all data are coded,“Fed”,

“Not Fed” or food amount is coded in the EXP DESIGN field,and “Feeding Efcts” is coded in the OTHER

EFCT field.

The source of the organism does not need to coded in the ORG CHARAC field unless the

author(s) compare results based on the source of the organisms. "Organism source efcts"

should also be noted in the OTH EFCT field.

 Example: ORG CHARAC: Hatchery-reared

OTH EFCT: Organism Source efcts//

Control Type (CNTL)

The type of test control(s) used in the study is reported in this field. Control information for the

reported effect may be presented in the text, in a graph, or in table format. ECOTOX reviewers do

not make assessments whether the controls were satisfactory or insufficient (e.g., were replicates

run, did control organisms die), but simply document whether the author(s) present information that

a control was used. When author’s state that controls were similar to treatment with the exception

that no chemical was added, and within the same paragraph they describe using solvent in all

treatments, a solvent control should be interpreted.(refer to ECOTOX Appendix M for control type

codes and definitions.)

When statistical comparisons are presented for multiple controls (e.g., statistics in relation to a

standard control and statistics in relation to a solvent control), code M in the CONTROL TYPE field

and note the appropriate control type used for the coded statistics in EE_REMARK. (e.g., stats

based on solvent control//) The data related to the solvent control is coded preferentially over the

standard control data and should be noted as such in the EE_REMARK field.

When multiple controls are reported by the author, code “M” in the CONTROL TYPE field and list the

various controls reported in a remark.

Example: Author reports the use of clean water control and a solvent control

CODE: CONTROL TYPE: M/ REMARK: CONTR/C,V//

4. Test Condition Parameters

Media Type (FW, SW)
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B8

The type of water or media is coded in the FW,SW field. Freshwater (FW) tests include 1)

laboratory tests conducted in freshwater, reconstituted water, distilled water, or tap water or 2) field

tests where the organism habitat is exclusively freshwater. If a salinity value of <4 ppt is reported

and the paper does not specify whether it is fresh or saltwater, it will be coded as a freshwater test. 

Saltwater (SW) tests include 1) laboratory tests conducted in natural or artificial seawater, brackish

water, or estuarine water or 2) field tests where the organism habitat is exclusively saline.

If a determination cannot be made regarding the use of either freshwater or saltwater, an NR (not

reported) is recorded.

Test Location (LAB, NR, FIELDN, FIELDA, FIELDU)

Report the location or setting in which the experiment was conducted (see ECOTOX Appendix H). 

For example, a natural field study (FieldN) is an experiment conducted outdoors in a natural setting

in which the test organisms are confined via an enclosure of some type (cage, fencing, plot lines)

or sampled in the wild. Field exposures are exposed to uncontrolled variables such as weather. 

An important component for classification as natural is that the setting includes a bottom substrate

as well as a community of representative organisms. Outdoor studies conducted in a simulated

environment are coded as an artificial field study (Field A) study. Such studies include organisms

isolated from their natural environment while still out of doors, e.g. earthen or concrete ponds

without sediment or with only one representative species. 

Laboratory tests are conducted under indoor controlled laboratory conditions (light and

temperature regulated). If the location or setting cannot be determined from the publication code

as Not Reported (NR). For AQUIRE, field (natural and artificial) tests are coded on the AQUIRE

Field Coding Sheet; all other studies including tests not specified field or lab, are coded on the

AQUIRE Lab Coding Sheet.

Study Type (STUDY TYPE)

For laboratory exposures, the study type is used to identify field simulation studies. For example, 

indoor mesocosm or microcosm studies should be noted as such in the STUDY TYPE field. If

information about the study type is not reported, leave this field blank. 

For field exposures record the study type as reported by the author in the STUDY TYPE field.

Examples of field study types include, but are not limited to, exposures with caged organisms or

conducted in a mesocosm, microcosm or enclosure. If information about the study type is not

reported, leave this field blank. 

Experimental Design (EXP DESIGN)
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B9

This field is used to code additional study information. For field tests, report exposure system

dimensions (e.g. pond or lake depth, cage or enclosure size), type of artificial substrate and 

physical or chemical water chemistry parameters.

EXP DESIGN: 3 ha polyethylene lined pond// EXP DESIGN: 4 x 4 m cage//

EXP DESIGN: sediment// EXP DESIGN: humic acid//

EXP DESIGN: Instant Ocean©// EXP DESIGN: Sinking Cr water//

For laboratory studies, information about media and test chambers is coded if one of the purposes

of the study is to compare results observed under differing test conditions (e.g., pH, temp, humic

acid, sediment) or if commercial media types (e.g. Instant Ocean©) were used in the study. If one of

the purposes of the study is to compare experimental effects (pH, temp, sex) in addition to toxicant

effects, report the additional effects in the OTHER EFCT field. (Refer to ECOTOX Appendix V for a

list of keywords)

Example: OTHER EFCT: pH efct//

Information about the dilution water is provided if needed to distinguish one test scenario from

another, e.g. natural waters from three different ponds, sites on a river, locations in a sea. Tests

with differing dilution water are coded as separate lines of data; it is not acceptable to combine

tests by effect or water chemistry variables across differing dilution water test scenarios.

If an organism is pre-exposed to another chemical and this is the only information that can be

coded, the chemical that is associated with the observed effect is coded and “preexposure with

X” is noted in the EXP DESIGN field. 

On occasion, an author will note that organisms were sampled during the course of a study for

analysis. “Sub-sampled” should be noted in the EXP DESIGN field. 

Example: Author tests organisms for residue and mortality over a 30 day study. At day 5 and 10,

several organisms are pulled from the study for residue analysis. At the end of the test

(30d) the mortality is reported. “Sub-sampled” should be coded in EXP. DESIGN field since

these sub-sampled organisms may or may not be included in the final calculation for

mortality.

When coding field exposure publications, additional related coding parameters that do not get

coded in the STUDY TYPE, HABITAT CODE, and SUBSTRATE fields are added to the 

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN field. When adding field exposure information to the EXP DESIGN field,

make sure to precede all data added with the appropriate field name code. 

Example: EXP DESIGN: HAB/suspended mesh bags//

5. Test Result Parameters

Toxicity test results for the AQUIRE database are represented by a combination of the ENDPOINT,
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B10

TREND, EFFECT, RESP SITE, EE_REMARK, MEASURE, EFCT%, SIG, LEVEL, CONC and BCF fields.

Toxicity test results for AQUIRE are primarily reported for observations taken during the chemical

exposure; however, when results are reported only for the period of time after the exposure

(moved to clean water), ie. recovery or delayed effects, this type of result is noted by using a “~” in

conjunction with the endpoint/effect code, e.g. ~MOR for a delayed mortality effect.

Figure 1. shows the hierarchy of coding tests in AQUIRE.

Endpoints always require a discrete line. For data not reporting an endpoint, at least one separate

line is coded for each measurement from either a unique experimental design or within one

design scenario for statistically defined data points. . 

Food chain effects or endpoints are coded for organisms at the first level of exposure. Subsequent

levels of exposure are not coded, but are noted in the OTHER EFCT: field, e.g. Other Effects: food

chain study//. 

 Endpoint, Effect, Measurement and Statistics sections have further description and examples. 

The following sections provide a brief description for each of these fields, followed by guidance for

coding information from the publication for each of the fields.

Endpoint (ENDPOINT)

For the purposes of AQUIRE, an endpoint is the quantification of an observed effect obtained

through statistics or other means of calculation for the express purpose of comparing equivalent

effects (e.g., LC50). ECOTOX Appendix T identifies and defines the ECOTOX endpoint codes.

The endpoint field will be coded as NR if the author does not report or define an endpoint or there

is no companion data point.

Endpoint information is coded into AQUIRE if it is reported by the author, if the author's definition

of the effect is equal to AQUIRE endpoint definitions, or if the data point is a companion endpoint

to a LOEC, NOEC and/or MATC. “Companion endpoints” are endpoints assigned by the reviewer

when the statistical results follow a clear concentration-response pattern and the author reports a

NOEC, LOEC or MATC but fails to report the “companion endpoint”. For example, when an author

reports a NOEC and does not specifically define the lowest statistically significant effective

concentration as a “LOEC”, the data point is coded as a LOEC in AQUIRE by the reviewer.

Similarly for reported LOECs without NOECs, NOEC/ LOECs without MATCs and MATCs without

NOEC/LOECs.

If within a study an author reports a NOEC and/or LOEC endpoint for one of the measurements in

the text but does not specify the endpoints for the other measurements which show statistical data

points within the same graph or table, the reviewer may extrapolate the SIG and NOSIG points for

the other measurements as LOEC and NOEC using the R designation in the ASSIGNED ENDPT 

field. The reviewer may not extrapolate data from other tables or graphs. In studies where
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B11

measurements are reported with statistical significance but the author does not report a NOEC

and/or LOEC for any of the measurements, the reviewer does not code a NOEC and/or LOEC.

Example: The text contains the following statement: “The NOEC and LOEC for weight were found to be 10 ug/l and

20 ug/l, respectively.” A table reports weight data as well as length and mortality data which is statistically analyzed. 

Conc (ug/l) Length (cm) Weight (mg) Mortality (%) * Sig at p<0.05

control 21 30 0

5 22 30 5

10 20 24* 5

20 15* 20* 8

30 13* 18* 25*

Code:

Endpoint

Assigned

Endpoint Effect Measurement Conc Signif Level

P NOEC GRO LGTH 10 ug/l NOSIG p<0.05

P LOEC GRO LGTH 20 ug/l SIG p<0.05

R NOEC GRO WGHT 5 ug/l NOSIG p<0.05

R LOEC GRO WGHT 10 ug/l SIG p<0.05

R NOEC MOR MORT 20 ug/l NOSIG p<0.05

R LOEC MOR MORT 30 ug/l SIG p<0.05

On occasion, authors will report LC50 information in the methods section of their publication, 

without reporting any accompanying test procedure information. These test results are coded if

enough information is provided by the authors to verify that the value(s) were not published

elsewhere, and that the study meets all five minimal criteria for acceptance. 

If replicate tests resulting in a number of endpoints, (e.g. LC50s), are conducted, each LC50 must

be reported on an independent line, even though the chemical, species, duration and effect are the

same. Mean results are not coded if individual results are reported,

Example: Rep 1 - LC50 = 23 ug/L Code only Rep 1 and Rep 2.

Rep 2 - LC50 = 25 ug/L

Mean - LC50 = 24 ug/L

If a data set is evaluated using more than one statistical analysis all resulting endpoints are coded

on separate lines (e.g. 2 LC50s for same data using probit and Spearman-Karber will be coded
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B12

as two separate data lines; report statistical method in EE_REMARK). Additionally, note “statistical

comparison” in the OTHER EFCT field (see OTHER EFCT section for more information).

Figure 1. Hierarchy of coding tests in AQUIRE
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B13

Measurements

with endpoint 

data reported

Follow endpoint hierarchy.

Present each endpoint as a single

data record in AQUIRE

Measurements

without 

endpoint data 

reported

Single 

Chemical 

Exposure

No statistical analysis 

perfomed on measurements 

within an effect, and no 

quantitative values reported.

Statistical 

analysis 

perfomed, 

quantitative 

data values 

reported.

100% or 0% Mortality 

responses. (See coding 

guidelines for examples.)

For each measurement, combine 

results into single data record 

ranging concentration, duration, 

and response sites.

Various species/taxa within a 

higher taxanomic grouping

(MUST be in the same system)

Code al measurements separately. 

Use Appendix S for abbreviations

Stats presented by

 lower taxa within a higher

taxanomic grouping (MUST be in 

the same system)

Clear dose response 

for sig/nosig results. 

Code all measurements separately. Present 

the lowest sig/highest nosig result as 

separate data records in AQUIRE. If all 

concentrations are sig or nosig, range all 

concentrations in Conc field and range 

durations.

No clear dose 

response 

for sig/nosig 

results. 

Code all measurements separately. 

Combine sig/nosig result into a single data 

record in AQUIRE (Code as Mult and range 

all concentrations and durations.)

Code all measurements separately.

If similar significance/trends, lump by 

sig/nosig results. If ALL taxa are sig, nosig or 

mult combine the lower taxonomic statistical 

results into one data record with the species 

identified as the higher taxonomic group. If 

there is varied significance/trend within the 

lower taxonomic groups, code each statistical 

result as a separate line, unless it would 

result in a skewed presentation of the data, 

i.e., if you lump the nosig results by higher 

taxonomic order the sig results should also 

be lumped by the higher taxonomic order.

Combine the lower taxonomic effect 

results into one data record with the 

species identified as the higher 

taxonomic group. Range 

concentration, duration, and response 

sites.

Statistics presented

 by tissue 

No statistical 

analysis 

perfomed, 

quantitative data 

values reported.

Multiple exposure 

concentrations

with one or more 

durations

One exposure concentration

with one or more durations

Code all measurements separately.

Combine tissues into one record and range 

concentrations and durations.

Code all measurements and response sites 

separately. Range significance and 

durations. Remark "only conc tested" as a 

concentration remark.

*If statistics are presented for a 

subset of the duration, code 

ONLY the data with statistics and 

make a durational remark.

Combine al measurements under one 

effect into a single data record ranging 

concentration, duration, and response 

sites.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B14

ENDPOINT HIERARCHY

The following hierarchy defines the priority for including endpoint information in the AQUIRE

database. The endpoints listed in category “A” are the highest priority, based on conformance

with standard toxicity endpoints, and should be coded if reported in the publication. If the endpoints

identified in subsequent categories (F) are also listed in the publication, these endpoints are not

coded but are noted in the OTHER EFCT field. If there are no endpoints from category “A” in the

publication, then endpoints from category “B”, if available, are coded and so on. 

Following the endpoint hierarchy, the next two sections define and describe the coding of trends

and effects. Trend information is coded, when available for endpoints as well as effects.

Regardless of whether endpoint data is available, any reported effect information is coded.

A The endpoint is an LC50, LD50, LETC, EC50, IC50, NOEC, LOEC, MATC or BCF

(BCFD), or its definition, as reported by the author. For example, if the author does not

actually state that the value is an LD50 but states that “concentration x is the dose

estimated to be lethal to 50% of the test organisms ” and refers to statistical methods to

estimate 50% lethality, the reviewer should code this as an LD50 endpoint because the

author defines the LD50. All individual endpoints are coded. If both BCF and BCFD (wet

weight and dry weight, respectively) are presented, code only the BCFD.

The AQUIRE database recognizes and codes “companion endpoints”; for AQUIRE such

endpoints are defined as statistically significant endpoints that neighbor an author-defined

NOEC or LOEC.

When a publication reports a LOEC and NOEC for a non-monotonical response pattern

(i.e., lower concentration significant and at least one higher concentration not significant);

code the LOEC/NOEC reported by the authors, but note TREND as ‘CHG’ and code the SIG

field as MULT to flag non-standard results.

In the AQUIRE database, the occurrence of no mortality (0%) or complete mortality (100%)

is treated as an endpoint. The endpoints NR-LETH and NR-ZERO will always be coded for

mortality effects of 100% mortality and 0% mortality, respectively. If for a laboratory test

exposure the authors report “all fish died”, code as NR-LETH and 100% mortality; however,

for a field exposure, unless conducted in an enclosure of some type, it is difficult to assume

that truly 100% of the fish are known to be dead, therefore the field exposure report of “all

fish died” is coded POP, DEC, ABND, and EFCT% is not coded. The term “nil” is defined

as “naught or nothing”, therefore, when used by an author, it will be assumed to mean 0%

mortality and coded as NR-ZERO.

The 100% mortality data point at the lowest concentration/ shortest duration is coded.

Similarly, the 0% mortality data point at the highest concentration/ longest duration is

coded. In contrast to other endpoints, the additional mortality effects are coded along with

the NR-LETH and NR-ZERO endpoint data. For example:
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B15

Mortality Table 1

μg/L 24 H 48 H 72 H 96 H

1 0 0 0 0 NR-ZERO

2 5 17 30 35

3 25 40 65 90

4 100 NR-LETH 100 100 100

A) LC50s reported in publication, code

LC50s as reported

NR-LETH: 4 μg/L at 24 hr

NR-ZERO: 1 μg/L at 96 hr

B) LC50s not reported in publication, code

NR-LETH: 4 μg/L at 24 hr

NR-ZERO: 1 μg/L at 96 hr

MOR: 2-3 μg/L at 24-96 hr

Mortality Table 2

μg/L 24 H 48 H 72 H 96 H

1 0 0 0 NR-ZERO 11

2 20 25 38 72

3 45 60 67 90

4 90 100 NR-LETH 100 100

A) LC50s reported in publication, code

LC50's as reported

NR-LETH: 4 μg/L at 48 hr

NR-ZERO: 1 μg/L at 72 hr

B) LC50s not reported in publication, code

NR-LETH: 4 μg/L at 48 hr

NR-ZERO: 1 μg/L at 72 hr

MOR 1-4 μg/L at 24-96 hr EFCT%: 0-100
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B16

Mortality Table 3

μg/L 24 H 48 H 72 H 96 H

1 0 START RANGE 0 7 13

2 0 28 45 60

3 38 44 67 100

4 38 60 100 100 END RANGE 

A) LC50s reported in publication, code

LC50's as reported

B) LC50s not reported in publication, code

MOR 1-4 μg/L at 24-96 hr EFCT% 0-100

Mortality Table 4

μg/L 24 H 48 H 72 H 96 H

1 0 START RANGE 0 0 0

2 0 0 7 13

3 0 28 45 60

4 38 44 67 100

5 38 60 100 100

6 100 100 100 100 END

RANGE

A) LC50s reported in publication, code

LC50's as reported

B) LC50s not reported in publication, code

MOR 1-6 μg/l at 24-96 h, EFCT% 0-100

B The endpoint is an author reported TLM, TL50, chronic value (ChV) or any terms with

equivalent definitions that define endpoints such as those listed in ECOTOX Appendix T.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B17

The equivalent AQUIRE endpoint is coded in the ENDPOINT field.

C The endpoint is LCxx, LDxx, ECxx, ICxx (other than 50% value). The endpoint is coded only

if the endpoints listed in A or B are not abstracted from the publication.

D The endpoint is LT50, ET50. The endpoint is coded only if the endpoints listed in A and B

and C are not abstracted from the publication. 

E The endpoint is LTxx, ETxx. The endpoint is coded only if the endpoints listed in A, B, C and

D are not abstracted from the publication.

F The endpoint is a delayed exposure effect (~xxx). The delayed effect endpoint is coded if no

similar exposure endpoint above has been coded. A specific exception is gut clearance

prior to tissue analysis; e.g., “after the exposure the organisms were placed in clean water

for 10 hours to allow the organism to clear the stomach contents”. This type of clearance is

distinguished from depuration and is not coded as a delayed effect.

Assigned Endpoint (ASSIGNED ENDPOINT)

If the reviewer enters an endpoint which is not stated by the author in the paper, or interprets an

author’s endpoint definition to be equivalent to the AQUIRE endpoint definition, a “R” for reviewerassigned endpoint is entered into the field. However, if the reviewer codes an endpoint as the

author states it in the paper, a “P” is coded for paper-assigned endpoint.

Example 1. Author reports NOEC in paper but does not include companion endpoint - LOEC. If reviewer

can determine LOEC from data, a “R” is coded for the LOEC and a “P” is coded for the

NOEC.

Example 2. Author uses TLm for 50% mortality endpoint. Reviewer can code the endpoint as LC50 and

puts “R” for reviewer assigned endpoint.

Trend (TREND)

The observed or measured response trend as compared to the control is coded when reported or

graphically displayed.

When assigning a trend to a record, it should reflect the measurement which may or may not reflect

the effect. For example, when authors report a decrease in survival; the effect is reported as MOR,

and the trend is associated with the measurement; i.e., decrease in survival. 

Example: EFCT: MOR TREND: Dec MEASURE: SURV

The trend for BCF, LCxx, LTxx is coded as "inc", except for the effect SVC (shell valve closure)

which is coded as "dec". The trend for ECxx, NOEC, LOEC , and MATC will be either "inc", "dec",

“chg” or NR depending on the results of the test. In instances when a trend is non-monotonical
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B18

code “chg”. The trend is noted as a two or three letter code: 

CODE: TREND:

INC increase

DEC decrease

NEF no observed effect; e.g., when coding NR-ZERO the trend is NEF

CHG no clear trend, results are variable (e.g. any combination of above trends listed)

NR no trend reported or if no control response is reported then the trend is not able to be

identified

Example: When a clear response, or lack thereof, is observed within an effect, it is coded as either

INC, DEC, or NEF. The measurement used to evaluate the effect is reported in the

MEASURE field, for example:

EFCT: GRO TREND: INC MEASURE: LGTH

When measurements do not report quantifiable data (see EFFECT MEASUREMENT section),

data are combined into one record. If these data report multiple trends, code CHG in the TREND

field and report the individual trends in EE_REMARK field as in the following example:

Example: EFCT: HIS TREND: CHG MEASURE: GHIS

EE_REMARK: inc EDMA, vacuolization, dec epithelial lining

Effect (EFFECT)

For ECOTOX database purposes, a toxicological effect is the observation or measurement of a

response resulting from the action of a chemical stressor (e.g., mortality). The ECOTOX database

internally categorizes all observed effects under at least one of eleven major effect group codes

(Accumulation, Behavior, Biochemical, Cellular, Growth/Development, Lethal, Physiological,

Population Community, Reproduction, Ecosystem and multiple groups). ECOTOX Appendix R

describes the major groups and associated effect definitions for each three letter code. The major

effect groups are not used by reviewers; their purpose is to provide database users the capability

to search on broad groups of effects without specifying each individual effect. See Scientific

Outreach Support for additional user support information.

The reported effect is interpreted to conform to the AQUIRE defined effects. If the effect is on the

list of AQUIRE effects, use the AQUIRE effect code (see ECOTOX Appendix S). If the author's

effect is not in Appendix S, but is similar to one already defined use the AQUIRE code which

matches the definition and note the author's effect term in the EE_REMARK field. If the author's effect

appears to be a new effect code, discuss and forward to EPA Data Manager for approval.

Listed at the end of ECOTOX Appendix R there are two special effect code conventions used in

AQUIRE. The first is NOC (No effect code)used only for ENDPOINTS reported by the author as

multiple effects, e.g. “mortality and growth” and no specific effect code can be assigned. This code

is used only when such effects cannot be separated into or reported as individual effects. The

NOC code is rarely used and when used must be verified by one or more fully trained reviewers.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B19

The second effect code convention is ~XXX to indicate that the result reported was observed after

the exposure period ended and the organisms are observed in clean water, i.e., a delayed

response. Within a publication, delayed response data is reported only if exposure period

observations are not available for the same effect or endpoint. When delayed response data

accompanies exposure period observations, the delayed response data is not coded but is

recorded in OTHER EFCT as “recovery”. 

NOTE: A specific exception is gut clearance prior to tissue analysis; e.g., “after the exposure the organisms

were placed in clean water for 10 hours to allow the organism to clear the stomach contents”. This type of

clearance is distinguished from depuration and is not coded as a delayed effect. 

Occasionally, effects describing a parasite-host relationship are coded in AQUIRE. For example,

the effect on the host is typically coded as a PHY effect with the measurement code PRNF. The

effect on the parasite is typically coded as a POP effect with the measurement code ABND.

EFFECT HIERARCHY 

A. If the author has defined an Endpoint for an effect, report the Endpoint as outlined in the

preceding ENDPOINT HIERARCHY.

B. When only effects are reported in the publication, no endpoints, code the concurrent effects

(results reported concurrent with exposure to chemical) according to the abbreviations in

ECOTOX Appendix S. Code NR (not reported) in the ENDPOINT field.

i. If statistics are presented in a clear dose response, code the lowest significant effect

and the highest nosig levels and appropriate p-values.

ii. If statistics are presented and there is no clear dose response, code as a MULT and

the appropriate value.

iii. If no statistics are used, or reported, combine the effect data by coding a range for

concentration and duration. Report as NR in the SIG and LEVEL fields.

C. When the only effects that are reported are those subsequent to exposure, report these as

delayed effects, noted with a ~ preceding the three-letter effect code, e.g. ~MOR. Follow the

procedures outlined in Steps B i, ii, iii for reporting delayed effects.

Response Site (RESP SITE)

A response site code is used to identify specific organ and tissue effect sites for residue,

biochemical and/or physiological effect measurements. For example, response sites are used for

ACC, BIO, CEL, HIS, PHY, GRO, and MPH effects and associated endpoints. The two or three

letter response site codes are listed in ECOTOX Appendix U. It is acceptable to code a response

site when tissues or organisms are pooled together for a measurement.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B20

If data for a number of tissues are presented along with statistical results report results for each

tissue separately. If statistics are not presented, combine the results into one data record. 

Combining Response Site

When the residue measured in one organ or tissue is further analyzed to indicate concentrations in

cells or cellular fractions, a comment is placed in the REMARK field (e.g., SITE /subcellular fraction//

or SITE /subcellular distribution//).

If the MT/ code is used, the individual tissues/organs are coded in the REMARK field (e.g., Site

/LI,KI,GI//). If the response site does not have a response site code, write out the response site

name and include a note with the coding sheet requesting a new code be added. When the

response site is not reported, the field is coded as NR. If whole organism and multiple sites are

listed, code "MT/" in tissue field and code WO and additional specific tissue codes in the REMARK

field (e.g. SITE/WO, LI, GI, HE//).

Effect Measurement (MEASURE)

Generally, “measures” or “measurements” are variables used to aid in the interpretation of the

degree of response to a toxicant by an organism. For example, measures of behavioral effects in

ECOTOX include behavioral changes (BEH SWIM), changes in feeding activity (FDB FDNG), and

stimulus avoidance (AVO STIM). ECOTOX Appendix S lists the measurements currently used for

each of the effects in the ECOTOX database. 

Each measurement that reports quantitative data (i.e. numeric values in the text, tables, or graphs),

regardless of statistical analysis, receives a separate data line. However, measurements that are

discussed in the text and do not report any numeric values may be combined into one record. If

several measurements are combined, code the General measurement code in the MEASURE field

and list the separate measurements in the EE_REMARKS field.

Example 1: Length and weight reported in table statistically analyzed.

CONC 0 10 ug/l 20 ug/l 30 ug/l 40ug/L

Length - nosig nosig sig sig

Weight - nosig sig sig sig

Code: EFCT: GRO MEASURE: LGTH CONC: 20ug/L - nosig

30ug/L - sig

EFCT: GRO MEASURE: WGHT CONC: 10ug/L - nosig

20ug/L - sig

Example 2: A decrease in length and weight reported on graph which is not statistically analyzed but

values are given.

CONC (from graph) 0 10 ug/l 20 ug/l 30ug/L
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B21

Code: EFCT: GRO TREND: DEC MEASURE: LGTH CONC: 10-30ug/L

EFCT: GRO TREND: DEC MEASURE: WDTH CONC: 10-30ug/L

Example 3: Histology reported in text. At concentrations of 10 ug/l , 20 ug/l and 40 ug/l, Reports that liver

had edema, swelling, and hypertrophy.

Code: EFCT: HIS MEASURE: GHIS EE remark: EDMA, SWEL, HYPT 

CONC: 10-40 ug/l

More information on coding statistics is found in the statistics section of this SOP.

Many publications which report field data or laboratory microcosm studies present results for

multiple species/taxonomic groups. The combining of results for species and taxonomic groups

depends on whether statistics were applied to the data and whether a similar response is evident.

C If, within a higher taxonomic group (e.g., Algae), individual effects for several lower

taxonomic groups are also presented (e.g., Bacillariophyta (diatoms), Chlorophycota (green

algae), Pyrrophycophyta (dinoflagellates)) the data may be reported in a number of ways.

Examples include:

C The measurements within each group are statistically analyzed and are similar

overall, ie., INCreasing, DECreasing or CHanGing. Combine the results and code as:

Species: Algae ORG CHARAC: 3 orders EFFECT: POP MEASURE: ABND

TREND: INC SIG: SIG

C The measurements within each group are statistically analyzed and differ from each

other. Code each result as a separate line:

Species: Bacillariophyta EFFECT: POP MEASURE: ABND TREND: INC SIG: SIG

Species: Chlorophycota EFFECT: POP MEASURE: ABND TREND: DEC SIG: SIG

C If no statistical analysis has been reported, the results from the lower taxonomic

groups can be combined into a single record representing the next highest

representative taxonomic group.

Species: Algae ORG CHARAC: 3 orders EFFECT: POP MEASURE: ABND 

TREND: CHG SIG: NR

EE_Comment (EE_REMARK)

This field contains additional endpoint and/or effect text, as described by the author. The types of

information coded include: 

Example 1: The endpoint terminology used by the author when an ECOTOX-defined endpoint was coded
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B22

rather than the author’s term. For example,

ENDPOINT: LC50 EE_REMARK: TLM or Median Period of Survival//

Example 2: If there are multiple measurements for the coded effect, all of the measurements are listed in

the EE REMARK field.

EFFECT:HIS MEASURE: GHIS EE_REMARK: EDMA, LESI, epithelial lining//

If there are no remarks pertaining to either the endpoint or the effect, the field is left blank. As much

as possible, codes should be used inEE_REMARK, but use of text is appropriate to ensure an

understanding of the test result. 

Effect % (EFCT %)

The EFCT% field is used when the effect is reported as a percent change, e.g. percent of the total

population or percent increase or decrease. 

If the author reports the number dead (i.e., “5 of 20") do not recalculate as a percent.

Example 1: “80% mortality” EFCT: MOR TREND: INC EFCT %: 80

MEASURE: MORT

Example 2: “25% survival” EFCT: MOR TREND: DEC EFCT%: 25

MEASURE: SURV 

Example 3: “5 of 20 died” EFCT: MOR TREND: INC EFCT%: NR

MEASURE: MORT

Example 4: “45% inc ATPase activity” EFCT: ENZ TREND: INC

EFCT%: 45 Measure: ATPA

If the percent effect is coded from a graph, code the percent values using a qualifier, ie. <, >, or ~,

using only the graphical intervals reported on the graph. Place a slash in the field and code

EFCT%/ from graph// in the REMARK field. If the percent effect is graphed and is not clear enough to

extrapolate, code “graphed” in EFCT % field. If the effect percent is not reported, the field is coded

as NR. 

If the percent effect is presented as “xx% of the control”, place a "/" in the EFCT % field and code:

EFCT %/xx% of control// in the REMARK field.

Example: GRO WGHT Dec 20-30% of the control

EFCT: GRO MEASURE: WGHT EFCT%: / TREND: DEC EE_Remark: Efct%/20-30% of control//

Combining Effect Percent

When data for an effect are combined because a statistical analysis was not applied and/or a clear
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B23

dose response was not observed, and several percent effect values are presented, there are two

different ways to report data. 

If the author reports the effect measurement on a single parameter, the effect percent is reported as

a range.

Example 1: 30-75% mortality EFCT: MOR MEASURE: MORT TREND: INC

EFCT%: 30-75

Example 2: 20-30% dec O2 consumption EFCT : PHY MEASURE: OXYG TREND: DEC

EFCT%: 20-30

Statistical Significance (SIG)

The statistical significance field is coded when the author has presented statistical analysis as

compared to the controls in the test result. 

The valid codes for this field are:

CODE DEFINITION

SIG Concentration(s) identified as significant (code lowest concentration in series of significant

treatments)

ASIG All toxicant concentrations significant

NOSIG Concentrations identified as not significant (code highest concentration in series of nonsignificant treatments)

ANOSIG All toxicant concentrations not significant

MULT Combination of sig and nosig results; pattern of significance is non-monotonical, or results

combined due coding practices. 

NA Not applicable (use for LC50, EC50, BCF, MATC, NR-LETH, AND NR-ZERO)

NR Not reported

If statistics are presented in the publication, unless the authors state otherwise, assume that the

exposure treatments were compared to the controls. 

When statistical comparisons are presented for multiple controls (e.g., statistics in relation to a

standard control and statistics in relation to a solvent control), code M in the CONTROL TYPE field and

note the appropriate control type used for the coded statistics in EE_REMARK. (e.g., stats based on

solvent control//) The data related to the solvent control is coded preferentially over the standard

control data and should be noted as such in the EE_REMARK field.

Data is separated into individual records if statistics are based on concentrations and a clear dose

response is shown. However, responses reported over time are exceptions to this rule. For

example:

1) If only one concentration is presented and the response differs over time, code one record, ranging the
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B24

durations.

Example 1: Conc. 24h 48h 72h 96h

1 ug/l nosig nosig sig sig

Code: CONC: 1 ug/l EXP TIME: 24-96 h SIGNIF: MULT

2) If multiple concentrations are presented and the results are non-monotonic across concentrations and time,

code one record combining all concentrations and all durations.

Example 2: Conc. 24h 48h 72h 96h

1 ug/l nosig nosig nosig sig

2 ug/l nosig nosig sig sig

3 ug/l nosig sig sig sig

Code: CONC: 1-3 ug/l EXP TIME: 24-96 h SIGNIF: MULT

3) If multiple concentrations are presented and the results are monotonic across concentrations and time,

code two records, a NOSIG record combining all durations and a SIG record combining all durations.

Example 3: Conc. 24h 48h 72h 96h

1 ug/l nosig nosig nosig nosig

2 ug/l sig sig sig sig

3 ug/l sig sig sig sig

Code: CONC: 1 ug/l EXP TIME: 24-96 h SIGNIF: NOSIG

Code: CONC: 2 ug/l EXP TIME: 24-96 h SIGNIF: SIG

The SIG field is coded as "NA" for records having an endpoint of MATC, LCxx, ECxx, LTxx, BCF,

ETxx, ICxx, LDxx, LETC, BCFD, NR-LETH, and NR-ZERO. For NOEC, LOEC and effects without

endpoints, code significance as author reports, or NR. 

When a publication reports a LOEC and NOEC for a non-monotonical response pattern (i.e., lower

concentration significant and at least one higher concentration not significant); code the

LOEC/NOEC reported by the authors, but note TREND as ‘CHG’ and code SIG as ‘MULT’ to flag

non-standard results.

The reviewer interprets hypotheses tests to determine a dose response endpoint. A significant

clear dose result is coded as SIG; no significant dose result is coded as NOSIG. Only the highest

NOSIG and the lowest SIG concentration is reported; unless all concentrations are SIG or all

concentrations are NOSIG. In this instance, code all the concentrations as a range as ASIG (all

significant) or ANOSIG (all not significant) respectively. If the significance level is reported, it is

coded in the LEVEL field described below.

In cases where the author reports only a SIG or NOSIG, code the companion data point. For

example, if a stat sig “growth” is reported in the text and in the table sig is noted the reviewer should

pick the nosig level and report this also.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B25

If the author states that there is a statistically significant increase or decrease in an observed effect,

whether or not they report the statistical method used, but does not report a significance level, code

SIG or NOSIG and NR in LEVEL field.

If a table has a footnote defining * values as significant as p<xx, it is acceptable for the reviewer to

assume that data points without an asterisk are not significant. 

If the author states there is a significant increase or decrease in an observed effect but does not

say it is "statistically significant," code NR in SIG field.

C When the highest concentration and all lower concentrations tested show no significant response, code

ANOSIG and range all concentrations in CONC field.

Example: 10 ug/L NOSIG P<0.05

20 ug/L NOSIG P<0.05

30 ug/L NOSIG P<0.05

Code: CONC: 10-30 ug/L SIG: ANOSIG LEVEL: P<0.05 

C When the lowest concentration and all higher concentrations tested show a significant response, code ASIG

and range all concentrations in CONC field.

Example: 10 ug/L SIG P<0.05

20 ug/L SIG P<0.05

30 ug/L SIG P<0.05

Code: CONC: 10-30 ug/L SIG: ASIG LEVEL: P<0.05 

C If only one concentration is tested and statistics are performed, code SIG or NOSIG in stats and "only conc

tested" as a CONC remark.

Example: 10 ug/L SIG P<0.05

Code: CONC: 10ug/L SIG P<0.05 REMARK: Conc/only conc tested//

Combining of Statistics

 If a measurement has no clear dose response as interpreted by the reviewer when statistics are

reported, it is coded as multiple significance (MULT).

Example 1: Five concentrations are tested and the two highest and two lowest show significance but the

middle concentration does not, code MULT.

Growth table with length affected by copper.

Conc Control 1 ug/L 2 ug/L 3 ug/L 4 ug/L 5ug/L

Length 20 cm 35cm 36cm 21cm 15cm 14cm

sig sig nosig sig sig P<0.05

Code: EFCT: GRO MEASURE: LGTH SIGNIF: MULT LEVEL: p<0.05

CONC: 1-5 ug/L

Example 2: Change in calcium concentration in the blood over three sample times shows significance at 24
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B26

hours, no significance at 48 hours, and significance at 96 hours. Code SIG field as MULT.

[Calcium] 24 hours 48 hours 96 hours

Control

10 ug/L sig nosig sig P<0.05

Code: EFCT: BCM MEASURE: CACO SIGNIF: MULT LEVEL: p<0.05

CONC: 10 ug/L DURATION: 24-96 H

Example 3: A publication reports a LOEC and NOEC for a non-monotonical response pattern (i.e., lower

concentration significant and at least one higher concentration not significant); code the

LOEC/NOEC reported by the authors, note TREND as ‘CHG’, and code SIG as ‘MULT’ to flag

non-standard results.

Mortality Control 10 ug/L 20 ug/L 30 ug/L 40 ug/L 50 ug/L

@ 24 hours nosig nosig sig nosig sig

Author endpoints NOEC LOEC

Code: ENDPT: NOEC EFCT: MOR MEASURE: MORT CONC: 20 ug/L

SIGNIF: MULT TREND: CHG

ENDPT: LOEC EFCT: MOR MEASURE: MORT CONC: 30 ug/L

SIGNIF: MULT TREND: CHG

Note: The MULT code is not used to represent a combination of data which has been statistically analyzed

with data that has not been analyzed. Code the statistical data over the non-statistically analyzed data. For

example, in an instance where the exposure duration is 5 days, and the statistical results presented are for 4

days; code the statistical results, note the duration as 4 days., place a slash in the duration field, and enter

the exposure duration (5 days) in the Remark field.

Significance Level (LEVEL)

The level of significance (e.g. test statistic) is coded when the author has reported statistical

analysis in the test result. The terminology for significance level may be presented as: p =; p- or

alpha value; P

2

; for t-test; % level. The terminology are equivalent and are generally in the range of p

= 0.10 to p = 0.001.

The LEVEL field is coded as "NA" for records having an endpoint of MATC, LCxx, ECxx, LTxx, BCF,

ETxx, ICxx, LDxx, LETC, BCFD, NR-LETH, and NR-ZERO. However, when the confidence level is

other than 95%, the level is coded as reported.

Combining of Level

When a range of concentrations is coded, and there are multiple levels of significance reported,

range the values.

Example: At all concentrations (10-50 ug/L) growth was significantly affected. At 10 ug/L the p value was

p<0.05, at 50 ug/L the p value was p<0.001.

CONC: 10-50 SIG: SIG LEVEL: P<0.05 - 0.001
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B27

Other Effects (OTHER EFCT)

Comments regarding other toxicity tests or effects reported in the publication that do not meet

AQUIRE minimum data requirements are coded in this field. A keyword list (see ECOTOX

Appendix V) for common terms is used as a guideline to assist the reviewer. The effect or endpoint

codes are used when appropriate. The reviewer should maintain a list of new keywords and

periodically submit this list to the EPA Database Manager. Commas separate each distinct term

and the text ends with a double slash (//).

OTHER EFCT: uptake, elimination// 

OTHER EFCT: toxicity symptoms, diet study//

OTHER EFCT: mixture, effluent//

If other chemicals are tested as a mixture with the test chemical, the keyword “mixture” is coded in

the OTHER EFCT field.

When water chemistry effects (temperature, salinity, pH) are tested in conjunction with chemical

toxicity, a Remark is coded in OTHER EFCT to reflect this type of interaction.

OTHER EFCT: salinity efcts//

Test Result Examples

1. If the author has defined an ENDPOINT and/or has reported a 0% and/or 100% mortality

response, report the endpoint/mortality as outlined in the Endpoint Hierarchy. Select the

appropriate effect as described below.

ENDPOINT REPORTED (NR-ZERO):

ENDPOINT: NR-ZERO MEASURE: MORT

TREND: NEF EFCT%: 0

EFFECT: MOR SIG: NA LEVEL: NA

If applicable, statistical results should appear in the SIG field, the level of significance should be

reported in the LEVEL field, the percent effect should be presented in the EFCT% field, and the

trend should be reported in the TREND field.

ENDPOINT REPORTED (LOEC):

ENDPOINT: LOEC MEASURE: LGTH

TREND: DEC EFCT%: 20

EFFECT: GRO SIG: SIG LEVEL: a<0.05

Note: For NOEC endpoints, NOSIG is coded in the SIG field. For LOEC endpoints, SIG is coded in the SIG field.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B28

2. If the author-reported effect is a clear dose response result using statistical analysis, and the

author does not identify an endpoint, select the appropriate effect from ECOTOX Appendix S.

Clear dose response data where a statistically significant effect was observed, are represented

by two data records. One data record represents the lowest concentration at which a statistically

significant effect occurred. "SIG" is coded in the SIG field, the observed trend is coded in the

TREND field, the percent effect is coded in the EFCT% field, and the level of significance is

reported in the LEVEL field. The observed measurement is coded in the MEASURE field.

Remarks on the effect are made in the EE_REMARK field.

CLEAR DOSE RESPONSE:

ENDPOINT: NR SIGNIF: SIG TREND: DEC

EFFECT: GRO EFCT%: 20 LEVEL: a<0.05

MEASURE: LGTH

The second data record represents the highest concentration at which no effect occurred.

NOSIG is coded in the SIG field. If a percent effect is reported it is presented in the EFCT% field.

If the concentration identified as SIG is the lowest concentration reported or the concentration

identified as NOSIG is the highest concentration reported, report the range of concentrations

and the appropriate code (ASIG and ANOSIG) in the SIG field.

If only one concentration is tested, code the SIG field appropriately and note "only conc tested"

as the concentration (CONC) remark in the REMARK field.

3. If the author reported effect shows unclear dose response results, using statistical analysis,

select the appropriate effect from ECOTOX Appendix S.

When data have been statistically analyzed, and the results presented have significant effects in

an unclear dose response pattern (e.g., significant effects at the high and low concentrations,

and not significant at the middle concentration), "MULT" is coded in the SIG field to signify

multiple significance. The level is coded with a full range of p-values (e.g. p<0.05-0.001).

UNCLEAR DOSE RESPONSE:

ENDPOINT: NR

MEASURE: 

ACHE

TREND: CHG

EFFECT: ENZ SIG: MULT LEVEL: P<0.05-0.001

4. If the author reports a descriptive or qualitative effect without statistical analysis, select the

most appropriate effect from ECOTOX Appendix S. One record is coded with a full range of

exposure concentration and time. The appropriate trend is coded in the TREND field. The

percent effect over the concentration tested is reported in the EFCT% field. NR is coded in SIG

and LEVEL fields.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B29

NO STATISTICAL ANALYSIS:

ENDPOINT: NR MEASURE: GHIS

EE REMARK: LESI,

ATRS, DEGN, EDMA

TREND: INC EFCT%: NR

EFFECT: HIS SIG: NR LEVEL: NR

6. Concentration Parameters

Concentration Type (CONC TYPE)

The three forms of toxicants evaluated in AQUIRE are organic compounds, metals and inorganic

non-metals. Each form can be identified as a concentration type code using the single letter

abbreviation.

Organic compounds are defined by the pesticidal terms, formulation (F) and active ingredient (A).

Publications that do not specify the compound by the definition criteria for active ingredients are by

default coded in the formulation (F) category. 

Metals are defined by the concentration types, total (T), dissolved (D), and labile/free (L); while

ammonia or hydrogen sulfide compounds may have total concentrations (T) and/or un-ionized (U)

concentrations. Organometals are coded as total (T) concentrations.

If two representative concentrations of a metal or inorganic non-metal are reported in the

reference, both concentrations are included in the same AQUIRE record; i.e, both total and unionized concentrations are reported in the concentration field. If the author reports the ammonia

concentrations as based on NH4-N or NH3-N, code CONC TYPE as "T" and "U", respectively in the

same record and code the specific ion information in the ION fields.

For publications where all three metal types, T, D and L, are reported code T and D as one entry

and the L concentration is coded as a separate line. (At some future point when new software is

developed, all three concentration types will be associated with one record).

Concentration Type is also linked to the Chemical Analysis Method (METHOD) field.(see discussion

below on Active Ingredient).

Concentration Types and Definitions

Organic:

FORMULATION (F): Way in which basic pesticide (toxicant) is prepared for practical use (Ware, 1978). Generally

reserved for commercial preparation prior to actual use and does not include the final dilution (Insect-Pest

Management and Control, 1971) (e.g.; Baythroid, 2,4-D). Also included in this category are organic compounds

with no pesticidal activity (e.g.; PCB, dioxin).

ACTIVE INGREDIENT (A): Chemical substance in a product that is responsible for the pesticidal (toxic) effect

(Ware, 1978). Reported as "A" when the author refers to the concentration as active ingredient, active principle or

various grades of reagents (ie., Analytical, Reagent or Technical). When coding, a value in the publication may be

reported as “AI kg/ha” or “kg AI/ha”; in AQUIRE this type of value is reported as ‘A =’ for CONC TYPE, with units
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B30

as kg/ha. For example, 100 kg AI/ha is reported as A = 100 kg/ha.

Note: Information reported in the PURITY field does not necessarily determine whether concentration is A or F. In

addition to the description above, using “A” as the concentration type occurs in situations such as the following:

1) Author states concentration of pesticide as “AI”.

2) Author states %AI (PURITY) and reports measured concentration.

3) Author states measured concentration of a pesticide.

Metal/Organometals:

TOTAL (T): The concentration of metals determined on an unfiltered sample after vigorous digestion, or the sum of

the concentrations of metals in both dissolved and suspended fractions ( APHA et.al. 1992). Heavy metals and

single elements (e.g. Na, Cl, Br) are coded as T.

DISSOLVED (D): Those constituents of an unacidified sample that pass through a 0.45 um membrane filter (e.g.

soluble metal) (APHA et.al. 1992).

LABILE (L): The labile or free ion metal concentration determined by various analytical methods. When coding,

the specific labile forms or complexes are not differentiated.

Inorganic non-metals:

Concentrations of ammonia and hydrogen sulfide are reported in the literature in either the total or unionized form.

Code the form as specified by the author. Ammonia may be reported as a variety of different forms, eg., NH3,

NH4

+

, NH3-N, NH4OH, or NH4Cl. ( US EPA 1979) The author must state whether the form is Total or Unionized; T

is the default for ammonia and hydrogen sulfide papers that do not state whether total or unionized concentrations

are reported.

TOTAL (T): The dissociated, charged form of nitrogen or hydrogen related chemicals. This can take on numerous

forms, e.g.; ammonium (NH+

4

), nitrite (NO2), etc. (Rand and Petrocelli, 1985).T is the default for publications that

do not state whether Total or Unionized concentrations are reported.

UN-IONIZED (U): The undissociated, uncharged form of ammonia or hydrogen sulfide. The ammonia molecule,

NH3, is the unionized form. (In aqueous solution, ammonia assumes an equilibrium between NH3 and NH+

4

.) The

NH3 is the toxic entity of the ammonia compound (Rand and Petrocelli, 1985). 

Ionic Fraction (ION)

For ionizing substances (e.g., metals, ammonia), report the dose as the ion if the concentration

presented by the authors is reported as based on the ionic form of the compound (eg., organotin as

Sn). Code the appropriate ionic symbol in the ION field (see ECOTOX Appendix O for Ion codes). If

concentration is based on the total compound, code 'NR' in this field. For non-ionizing substances,

code 'NR' in this field. 

If the test chemical for a metal is reported as the elemental metal (i.e. mercury) code the ion (Hg) in

the ION field.

Effect Concentration (CONC)

Report the effect concentration in the same units used by the author. Do not convert any units. (See

ECOTOX Appendix N for a list of concentration units). The confidence interval, fiducial limits, or

range is recorded when available. The water concentration is coded in this field, except for diet

studies, where the concentration in the food is coded. If a test is run with two sources of chemical,
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B31

such as diet and water, code the concentration of the diet in the CONC field, the EXP TYPE field as D

and code CONC/water conc rpt// in the REMARK field. 

When coding numbers do not use commas. They can be mistaken for decimal points or numbers.

Code the mean and range of a stated concentration unless there are multiple test results being

combined into one test record. In this case the lowest minimum concentration and the highest

maximum concentration will be used.

Example 1: Endpoint reported as LC50 = 100 (50-150) ug/L

Code: ENDPOINT: LC50 CONC: 100 (50-150) ug/L

Example 2: Effect (reported at 1 concentration tested with replicates)

Rep1 = 10 (9-13) ug/L

Rep2 = 11 (8-13) ug/L

Code: The lowest minimum value and the highest maximum value are coded.

Conc: 8-13 ug/L

Example 3: Multiple concentrations reported with no statistics. Combine concentrations into one record

coding the lowest minimum value and highest maximum value.

Nominal Conc. Measured Conc.

1 ug/L 1.5 (1-2) ug/L

2 ug/L 2.3 (2-3) ug/L

3 ug/L 3.1 (2.5-3.3) ug/L

Code: Conc: 1 -3.3 ug/L

Occasionally an author will report a concentration as a % or fraction of an LC50 value; e.g., either

the sublethal concentration used was “10% of the 96-h LC50" or “1/10, 1/15 and 1/20 of the LC50".

Such concentrations may be recalculated and used as the effect concentration if the original LC50

concentration is provided in the publication. Flag the recalculation in the paper so that the

calculation may be QA’d and document the recalculation in the margin or on a blank page of the

publication. Put a slash next to the concentration value and note in the REMARK field:

CONC/Recalculated//.

When concentrations are taken from a graph, put a slash next to the concentration value and note in

the REMARK field: CONC/from graph//.

All reported concentrations are coded and identified as to whether the concentration is based on

the active ingredient or formulation, or as the total, un-ionized or dissolved concentration, are

identified (see CONC TYPE).

In certain cases, the AQUIRE concentration is routinely reported as some form of the test chemical.

For metal salts, the concentration is generally expressed as ug ion/L (e.g., Hg+). Be sure to code

the ION field with appropriate ion.

An exponential number greater than +8 or smaller than -7 (e.g., 1 x 108; often reported as 108) is

coded as E+n or E-n (e.g., 1 E+8). The concentration field is 10 characters long, therefore numbers
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B32

less than or equal to +8 or -7 can be written out, eg. 106 is reported as 1,000,000.

When the concentration is reported as the metal (e.g., Sn), but the chemical tested is identified as

an organometallic (tributyltin chloride (C12H27ClSn)): Record the full name of the chemical tested in

the TEST field, enter "T" in the CONC TYPE, report the concentration in the CONC field, and identify in

the ion that the concentration is based on the metal component and report in the ION field.

If a chemical concentration is reported in the control water, ‘contaminated controls’ should be noted

in the EXP DESIGN field. The concentration of chemical in the controls is not coded.

If the chemical used is an aged solution and the author is comparing the data to varying aged

solutions (e.g. 2 d aged solution, 4 d aged solution and 6 d aged solution), all data are coded, “X d

aged solution” is coded in the EXP DESIGN field, and “Aged Solution Efcts” is coded in the OTHER

EFCT field.

For field data, the water concentration may be reported as NR, if the application rate is reported

(see AP RATE field). However, the concentration type (F,A,T,D,L,U) must still be coded in this field

along with NR.

Bioconcentration Value (BCF)

The bioconcentration factor (BCF) is a unitless value describing the degree to which a chemical

can be concentrated in the tissues of an organism in the aquatic environment. At apparent

equilibrium during the uptake phase of a bioconcentration test, the BCF is the concentration of a

chemical in one or more tissues of the aquatic organism divided by the average exposure

concentration in the water. The unitless number is calculated by dividing the concentration of the

exposure chemical found in the tissue by the concentration of the chemical found in the exposure

water,

BCF = g/kg chemical in organism tissue

g/L chemical in H2O

or it is calculated from a ratio of rate constants, if at steady state,

BCF = K1 (uptake)

 K2 (elimination)

A bioconcentration endpoint is coded as either wet (or unknown) or as dry weight (BCF and BCFD,

respectively). An accumulation (ACC) effect, measurement of RSDE, and the associated BCF

value is coded in the BCF field. If the author does not calculate a BCF, the test is recorded as an

ACC effect, measurement of RSDE, NR in the ENDPOINT field, and NR in the BCF field. 

If a BCF is reported for the parent compound and for a metabolite, record the parent compound

BCF and note /metabolite BCF// in OTHER EFCT.

If the BCF is at steady state or equilibrium, it is noted using the term "steady state" in the 
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B33

EE_REMARK field. 

If the BCF is normalized for lipid, "lipid normalized" and the % lipid, if available, are reported in the

EE_REMARK field.

EE_REMARK: Steady State, lipid normalized 5% lipid//

If an author reports more than one type of BCF, ie. lipid normalized, regular, or radioactive

equivalents, for the same data point; code lipid normalized over regular and regular over

radioactive equivalents. The secondary analysis endpoint is reported in OTHER EFCT.

OTHER EFCT: radioactive equivalent BCF//

For papers that report BCFs and provide Lethal Body Burden information, note “Lethal Body

Burden” in OTHER EFCT. However, in a publication reporting only residue data as lethal body

burdens code the effect as ACC, the measurement as RSDE, and report “Lethal Body Burden” in

EE_REMARK.

If an author indirectly measures the uptake of a chemical in an organism by measuring the loss of

the chemical from the test media, the data is not coded. However, if the chemical is measured in

the excrement (urine or feces) it is coded as RSDE in urine (UR) or feces (FC).

Exposure Type (EXP TYP)

Exposures must either be aqueous, through the diet, or by injection. Specific exposure types are

coded. For example, if an injection exposure type is reported, code the specific route of injection

(such as IM for intramuscular). In vitro toxicity test results are not coded in the AQUIRE database. If

an exposure type is not clearly defined or is not reported, an NR exposure type is coded. Exposure

Type codes are listed in ECOTOX Appendix J.

Chemical Analysis Method (M/U)

This parameter identifies whether quantitative analyses of the toxicant concentration in the test

water was conducted and whether measured concentrations were used to report the results. This

field represents/defines the concentration which was used in reporting the endpoint or effect;

publications may report Measured and Unmeasured concentrations for one test scenario, use the

code which represents whether the specific effect/endpoint concentration was measured or

unmeasured. If both measured and unmeasured concentrations for the specific effect/endpoint are

reported, record only the measured concentrations. When chemical measurements are conducted

on stock solutions, but nominal concentrations are reported for effects or endpoints, code as

Unmeasured. When chemical measurements are conducted periodically throughout the exposure

but the reported measurements are not correlated with the effects, code as Unmeasured. When

chemical measurements are conducted periodically throughout the exposure and the effects are

coordinated with the measurements, code as Measured. For non-English publications, code as Not

Reported unless explicitly stated to be measured or unmeasured concentrations. 

Even if measured values are reported by the author to have deteriorated by the end of the
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B34

exposure, the Measured code should still be used. It is acceptable to assume that if the author

used measured concentrations in residue analysis, that these measured values were carried over

to calculate BCF’s. (See ECOTOX Appendix P for codes)

7. Test Duration Parameters

Exposure Duration (EXP TIME)

Exposure duration is coded using the units reported in the publication. If exposure duration is not

reported, the publication is rejected (unless it is an abstract or is a non-English publication). Time

information may be extracted from a figure.

For a fluctuating or intermittent dosing (P) experiment, the total test time is recorded in the EXP TIME

field with the exposure times and intervals between dosages reported in the REMARK field. 

Example: EXP TIME: 24 Duration Unit: H/ Remark: TIME/ 3 pulses of 45 mi each per 24 H//

When an exposure duration is not directly linked to a response, the duration is reported as the full

range of time, e.g. "during a 10 week period" is coded as "0-10 wk" or if the response is for a

portion of the exposure duration, ie., from day 2 through 10 wk, then code as 2-70 d.

For delayed effects, report the duration of exposure to the toxicant only. The observation time is not

recorded. (See ECOTOX Appendix I for valid duration units)

For generational studies, report results only for lifestages that are directly exposed to the toxicant.

Example 1: Parent exposed – Offspring in clean water.

Code effects on parents and code “generational study” in OTHER EFCT.

Example 2: Parents exposed – Offspring exposed

Code the effects on both parents and offspring. Code the initial lifestage of organisms tested in

the ORGANISM CHARACTERISTICS field and code the lifestage of the organism being

measured in the EE_REMARK field.

8. Water Chemistry Parameters

The following water chemistry parameters are included in AQUIRE, and are coded in appropriate

fields. These measured values pertain either to the test water chemistry or the dilution or culture

water chemistry values. In the absence of test water chemistry parameters, it is acceptable to report

the culture, holding tank, acclimation, control or dilution water, or pretest conditions denoted by an

asterisk (*). Water chemistry parameters measured prior to or after the exposure period are coded

only if test water chemistries are not reported in the publication. If the author reports the test

conditions as “similar” to other methods in the paper, code test conditions as “NR”. 

When water chemistries differ between samples (e.g., test chamber or water body), and results are

obtained from only some of the samples, water chemistries should be reported for only those

samples actually tested. 
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B35

If the parameter unit is any unit other than the standard unit code (see Table 2) the unit is coded with

the value. When the author refers to the water chemistry values as approximate a "~" is coded in

front of the value. Graphed data are coded as a range or as “less than” or “greater than” values and

the term “graphed” is noted as a REMARK, e.g. temp/graphed//.

Water chemistry values should be coded as reported by the author. If the author uses the

standardized units of the AQUIRE, the units do not need to be recorded. (See ECOTOX Appendix

W for additional water chemistry units)

Table 2. Specific Parameters

Field

Name

Standard Unit Definition Comment

TEMP C Temperature When temperatures are reported for incubation chambers or

water baths, these temperatures are acceptable for reporting

as test temperatures. Do not code temperatures noted as

“room temperature”.

HARD mg / L CaCO3 Hardness If the author only reports the terms “hard” or “soft”, these

terms are recorded. If the author reports a hardness value

but does not identify a unit and/or refers to the value as

“total”, standard units are assumed and the value coded.

ALK mg / L CaCO3 Alkalinity If the author reports an alkalinity value but does not identify

a unit and/or refers to the value as “total”, standard units are

assumed and the value coded.

DO mg / L Dissolved Oxygen A “SAT” code is used for 100% saturation

pH -- pH pH range is between 1 and 14

SALIN ppt Salinity

COND umhos / cm Conductivity

ORG C mg / L Carbon Organic Carbon Organic carbon must designate (T=Total, P=Particulate,

D=Dissolved); if more than one type of organic carbon is

reported in the publication, record T in the field and the other

values (P or D) as a Remark; if the value is reported as

“organic carbon” without identifying type, assume the value

is expressed as Total and report T. Sediment organic

carbon values are not reported.

9. Remark Parameters

The REMARK field contains additional information about a coding field. The coding sheet does not

reflect a discreet REMARK field. Reviewers should code remarks in available blank space. Remarks

for an AQUIRE field begin with a field name identifier, then a slash (/), followed by text and end with

a double slash (//).

Example: Site/LI, KI, MU //
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B36

P

MX

When additional information is necessary for coding a field, a slash is placed in the coded field and

a remark field name identifier is placed in the REMARK field to link the remark to the coded field. A

complete list of field names is documented in ECOTOX Appendix DD.

10. Field Testing Parameters

Habitat Comment (HABITAT CODE)

In the first box, a one-letter code based on the Cowardin system code (see ECOTOX Appendix X)

is used to describe the habitat (eg., Lacustrine or Riverine). The descriptor field is used to record

the author's description of the water body, e.g. brackish marsh, oligotrophic lake, plastic tub,

polyethylene lined enclosure. If the author does not provide any information about the habitat, both

fields are coded as NR (not reported).

Habitat Code

concrete tanks

in natural pond

Substrate (SUBSTRATE)

The bottom substrate is recorded as a two letter code by using the SUBSTRATE codes listed in

ECOTOX Appendix Y. If there are no applicable codes, record as the author states in the literature.

If a substrate is not reported, NR is recorded. A mixture of sediment types is coded as "MX" and

should also include text for the most prevalent soil type(s) in the mixture.

Differentiate between organic and mineral soil/sediment by recording O for organic (leaves,

detritus, debris) and M for mineral. Report % organic matter, if reported in literature.

Substrate

SA, GR, rocks

Water Depth (DEPTH)

Water depth value and unit are coded for the study site, as reported by the author. The software will

convert the depth to a metric unit. "NR" is coded in the DEPTH field if the author does not report the

water depth at the study site. If the author only reports the water depth of the entire system or the

depth at which experimental units (i.e., cages) are suspended, "NR" is coded, and depth

information is included in the EXP DESIGN field. (See ECOTOX Appendix Z for valid unit codes)

Geographic Location (LOCATION)

Water body, city, county or relevant site information is coded. (see ECOTOX Appendix AA for field

location abbreviations.)
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B37

Geographic Code (ST/PR/COUNTRY)

This field will contain the state, province or country name of the test site along with the Geo code. If

the test site is not reported, an "NR" is coded. (ECOTOX Appendix BB contains a listing of country,

region, province names and associated Geo code.)

Longitude/Latitude (LAT/LONG)

If reported by the author the latitude and longitude are recorded. If a range is reported, place a

slash in the field and report range in REMARK field. If not reported, NR is recorded. An example of a

longitude/latitude location (MED, Duluth, MN) is listed below:

Latitude: 46°50'51" N

Longitude: 92°11'12" W

NOTE: The "~" sign replaces the "°" sign in data entry.

Application Type (AP TYPE)

This code will contain the method of application of the chemical. Application type codes are located

in ECOTOX Appendix J.7.

For instances where the reviewer is unsure whether the chemical was applied directly to the water

body by pumping, pouring, metering, etc.,"DA" (Direct Application) will be coded.

Application Frequency (FREQUENCY)

Record the number of doses applied during the exposure. If the dose is a non-pulsed, continuous

flow, code "continual" in the FREQUENCY field. Examples of continual exposures include artificial

stream experimental systems and in situ exposures. If an application frequency is not reported,

record NR. “Times” is written as X (e.g. 1X, 2X). 

Examples: FREQUENCY: 3X per mo// FREQUENCY: 4X// FREQUENCY: Continual//

Application Rate (AP RATE)

This field contains the application rate value and the units that the author reports. If an application

rate is not reported by the author, record as NR. If an exposure concentration is not reported by

author, the application rate must be reported. (See ECOTOX Appendix CC for application units)

Chemical Half-life (HALF-LIFE)

Record the specific chemical half-life in water as measured by the author. If the half-life is
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B38

referenced from another paper, code this field as NR. If information about the half-life is not

reported, record NR.

Example: HALF-LIFE: 2d

Application Season (AP SEASON)

This field is used ONLY if no application date is given by the author but the author does specify a

season. This field contains the season of initial application of the chemical. A list of application

seasons with dates and AQUIRE codes is presented below:

Code Season

WI Jan-March

SP April-June

SU July-Sept

AU Oct-Dec

NR Not Reported 

Application Date (AP DATE)

The application date is the time of initial exposure. The format is MO-DA-YR, e.g. 12-01-93, 01-00-

75, 00-00-64. If more than one initial date is reported (e.g. more than one pond exposed), record

the dates as a REMARK. If one pond is exposed multiple times, only report the first application date

and note #x in frequency. If the application date is not reported, NR is recorded.
AQUIRE Coding Guidelines

MED ECOTOXICOLOGY DATABASE SOPS DECEMBER 2002 B39

11. References

American Public Health Association, American Waste Works Association, and Water Pollution

Control Federation. 1992. Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Waste Water,

Eighteenth Edition, APHA, Washington, DC.

American Public Health Association, American Waste Works Association, and Water Pollution

Control Federation. 1996.

American Society for Testing and Materials. 1996. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Section II

Water and Environmental Technology, Pesticides; Resource Recovery; Hazardous Substances and

Oil Spill Responses; Waste Disposal; Biological Effects. Vol. 11.05. ASTM, Philadelphia, PA.

Code of Federal Regulations. 1992. Title 40 - (Protection of Environment), Pt. 792 - "Good

Laboratory Practice Standards", U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC.

Insect- Pest Management and Control. 1971. Vol. 3, National Academy of Sciences: 377.

Rand, G.M. and S.R. Petrocelli (Eds). 1985. Fundamentals of Aquatic Toxicology, Hemisphere

Publishing Corporation, Washington, DC:666 p.

Rand, G.M. (Ed.) 1995. Fundamentals of Aquatic Toxicology, Taylor & Francis, U.S.A. 1125 p.

U.S. EPA. 1979. Aqueous Ammonia Equilibrium- Tabulation of Percent Un-Ionized Ammonia.

EPA-600/3-79-091. US EPA, Duluth, MN:428 p.

Ware, G.W. 1978. The Pesticide Book, W.H. Freeman and Co.
ECOTOX 10% REPLICATE REVIEW 

Date: 

Reference Number: 

G Replicate

Review

Complete

Attachment 1. ECOTOX Replicate Review Form

Section I

Coordinator Comments (Data abstraction discrepancies outlined):

Initials: Date: 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Section II

Second Data Abstractor Comments (Response to discrepancies):

Initials: Date: 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Section III

First Data Abstractor Comments (Response/Incorporation of modifications):

Initials: Date: 

Section IV (If non-applicable, go to Section VI)

Coordinator Comments (Remaining data abstraction discrepancies outlined):

[ ] Further action required, see below:
Initials: Date: 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Section V (If Section IV is used, complete Section V)

First Data Abstractor Comments (Response/Incorporated modifications outlined): 

Initials: Date: 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Section VI

[ ] Replicate review complete; no further action required.

Initials: Date: 

AQUIRE LAB CODING SHEET (September , 2000)

CHEMICAL GRADE PURITY FORM CHARACTERISTICS RADIO LABEL CAS NUMBER

5. TEST # # # | # | 

 

2. S/V | | # | # | 

 

3. S/V | | # | # | 

 

REF #, AUTHOR, YEAR TOTAL TESTS REVIEWER DATE / / 

FW| SW| NR LAB | NR

STUDY TYPE QA DATE / / INITIALS 

 

Loc

No

Latin Name 

Species Number

Organism Characteristics C

n

t

l

Endpoint Trend Effect Resp SiteMeasure Efct % Sig LevelConc Type, Concentration and Range or CI

 

 Ion

BCF Exp

Time

E

x

p

T

y

p

M/ UT

e

m

p

Hard Alk. D.O. p

H

SalinityCond Org C

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

D T P

EXP. DESIGN: 

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:
 

 

Loc

No

Latin Name 

Species Number

Organism 

Characteristics

C

n

t

l

Endpoint

Trend

Effect

Resp Site

Measure

Efct %

Sig

Level

Conc Type,

Concentration and Range or CI

 ION

BCF Exp

Time 

Exp

Typ

M/U Temp Hard Alk D.O. pH SalinityCond Org C 

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

 

 

 D T P

EXP. DESIGN: 

OTHER EFCT: 

EE_REMARK: 

D T P

EXP. DESIGN: 

OTHER EFCT: 

EE_REMARK: 

 

 

DTP

EXP. DESIGN: 

OTHER EFCT: 

EE_REMARK: 

 

 

D T P

EXP. DESIGN: 

OTHER EFCT: 

EE_REMARK: 

 

 

D T P
— CONTINUED ON BACK –

EXP. DESIGN: 

OTHER EFCT: 

EE_REMARK: 

 

 

AQUIRE FIELD CODING SHEET (September , 2000)

CHEMICAL GRADE PURITY FORM CHARACTERISTICS RADIO LAB CAS NUMBER

1. TEST # # # | # | 

 

2. S/V # # # | # | 

 

3. S/V # # # | # | 

 

REF #, AUTHOR, YEAR TOTAL TESTS REVIEWER DATE / / QA Date Initials 

 FW | SW |NR

FIELD 

Study Type 

 

Loc

No

Latin Name

Species Number

Organism

Characteristics

C

n

t

l

Endpoint Measure Conc Type

, Concentration

and

 Range or CI

 ION

BCF Expo

Time 

E

x

T

y

MethodTemp Hard Alk D.O. pH SalinityCond Org C

Trend Effect % D T P

Effect Sig

Resp Level

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

Habitat Code Substrate Depth Location: APTyp eFrequency AP Rate Half Life AP Date AP Season

St/Pr/Country: LAT

LONG

Name Char C Conc BCF Time Ex Meth Temp Hard Alk DO pH Sal Cond Org C

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

Name Char C Conc BCF Time Ex Meth Temp Hard Alk DO pH Sal Cond Org C

D T P
— CONTINUED ON BACK –

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:
Name Char C Conc BCF Time Ex

Meth Temp Hard Alk DO pH Sal Cond Org C

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

Name Char C Conc BCF Time Ex Meth Temp Hard Alk DO pH Sal Cond Org C

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

Name Char C Conc BCF Time Ex Meth Temp Hard Alk DO pH Sal Cond Org C

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

Name Char C Conc BCF Time Ex Meth Temp Hard Alk DO pH Sal Cond Org C

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

Name Char C Conc BCF Time Ex Meth Temp Hard Alk DO pH Sal Cond Org C

D T P

EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK:

Name Char C Conc BCF Time Ex Meth Temp Hard Alk DO pH Sal Cond Org C

D T P
EXP. DESIGN:

OTHER EFCT:

EE_REMARK: