Soil organisms as an essential element of a monitoring plan to identify the effects of GMO cultivation

Abstract

After a release of genetically modified organisms, monitoring of potential adverse effects on the environmentis mandatory. The protocol used for monitoring should be previously tested in practical studies andmust be standardised. Moreover, sampling methods and the evaluation of results must meet current scientificand technical standards. Due to their particular role in maintaining soil quality and in a multitude ofecological processes in agro-ecosystems, soil organisms belong to those groups for which VDI guidelinesare being developed. The guideline 4331 Part 1 describes fundamental criteria for the selection and sampling of soil organisms for GMO monitoring and gives guidance for sampling design, sampling strategyand statistical evaluation. In the guideline three approaches are followed: (1) a compilation of previouslyknown effects and exposure pathways, (2) a documentation of ecological functions of soil organisms (ecosystemservices) as well as (3) a description of characteristic species compositions in the soil. The aim wasto develop a selection matrix that helps to choose the appropriate animal groups to be sampled. Besidesthe habitat type and the ecological relevance, the selection matrix also considers the suitability of animalgroups in terms of practical issues and, in specific cases, anticipated effects. Further parts of the guideline4331 will describe sampling methods for relevant soil animal groups.Quelle: BioRisk (2013)8, S. 73-87