Characterize ecological receptors

Characterize ecological receptors

For each chosen receptor, the assessment should include a species profile which

characterizes the biological properties of the selected receptors. These profiles

consist of text descriptions of the relevant ecological and physiological

characteristics and taxonomic relationships of the receptors. These include, but are

not limited to, descriptions of: trophic status, feeding type, food preferences,

ingestion rates, range, prey, predators, migratory habits, breeding habits, likely

habitats, population estimates, reproductive strategies, substrate and habitat

preferences, and life history. The profiles should also include any particular

vulnerabilities or status of the species as rare, threatened, or endangered. Note that

profiles should include, as much as possible, site specific aspects of an organisms

biology. For example, it is important to know whether a receptor organism breeds

near the site.

The product of this step is a written characterization of ecological receptors

derived from: a literature review, reviews of existing studies, and results of surveys

during the site selection process or monitoring at existing sites. This

characterization will be used in the development of exposure scenarios and the risk

characterization.

Chapter 2 Problem Formulation