OECD 207 Earthworm Acute Toxicity Test

    OECD 207 Introduction

    OECD 207 is a standardized test created to evaluate different chemicals’ acute toxicity to earthworms (in particular Eisenia fetida or Eisenia andrei), which are significant to the ecological functions of soil. The test is helpful to assess possible risks to soil-dwelling organisms from pesticides, industrial chemicals, etc.

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    OECD 207 Test Method

    This test is performed in two categories; one with paper contact toxicity test which is a rapid test and another artificial soil testing which takes a longer duration of time. 

    Test procedure for the paper contact toxicity testFor this test, the earthworms are exposed to the test substance on a moist filter paper. This helps in identifying the potential toxic chemical.
    Test procedure for artificial soil testingIn this the earthworms are kept sample precisely defined artificial soil during the duration of test. This determines and gives the data of natural exposure of earthworms to chemicals. 

    OECD 207 Equipment and Sample Preparation

    Specimen Details for Filter Paper Contact Toxicity Test. The testing range employs five different dosages, ranging from 0.0001 mg/cm² to 1.0 mg/cm². For each dosage, ten replicates are required, with each vial containing a single worm. Each dosage requires ten replicates, and each vial holds a single worm. The vials are placed on their sides in the dark at a temperature of 20º ± 2ºC for 48 hours.
    Specimen Details for Artificial Soil TestTo conduct this procedure, five different concentrations of the test substances arranged in a geometric series should be utilized, ensuring that one concentration leads to no deaths while another concentration causes complete mortality. These treatments are to be repeated four times, and the mortality rates of the earthworms will be evaluated both 7 days and 14 days after application.

    OECD 207 Results and Interpretation

    The mortality of the earthworms after 14 days are measured. Then the Lethal Concentration dose (LCD 50) is determined. Secondly if there are any abnormalities , those are analysed in earthworms. 

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    OECD 222 (Earthworm Reproduction Test) – evaluates the long-term impacts.  

    OECD 317 (Bioaccumulation in Terrestrial Oligochaetes) – quantifies the absorption.  

    ISO 11268-1 determines the acute toxicity using artificial soil substrate. ISO 11268-2 determines the effect of pollutants on earthworm reproduction. 

    Updated on September 17, 2026

    Divakar Shukla
    About Author
    Divakar Shukla
    Divakar Shukla is an Electrical and Electronics Engineer specializing in the convergence of embedded systems architecture, industrial automation, and applied artificial intelligence.
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