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Toxicity to terrestrial plants

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Endpoint:
toxicity to terrestrial plants: short-term
Type of information:
experimental study
Adequacy of study:
key study
Study period:
June 04, 2007 - July 02, 2007
Reliability:
1 (reliable without restriction)
Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:
guideline study
Qualifier:
according to guideline
Guideline:
OECD Guideline 208 (Terrestrial Plants Test: Seedling Emergence and Seedling Growth Test)
Deviations:
no
GLP compliance:
yes (incl. QA statement)
Analytical monitoring:
no
Details on sampling:
On day 21 after 50% seedling emergence, soil samples are taken for pH measurements.
Vehicle:
no
Details on preparation and application of test substrate:
TEST SOIL
Origin: agricultural soil from site Gerichshain (batch G 01/2007), stored for at least 1 year before used in the test
Soil type: sandy loam according to "AG Bodem" of BBA 1994, loam according to USDA
pH value (CaCl2): 5.9 (ISO 10390)
C(org): 0.9%
Humus content: 1.5%
Water holding capacity: 38.8 g/100 g dry soil
Particle size: 9.9% < 0.002 mm (clay), 45.9% between 0.002 and 0.063 mm (silt) and 44.3% between 0.063 and 2.0 mm (sand)
No pesticides or fertilisers were applied on the origin plot of the used soil for at least 5 years because the plot was fallow land

Species:
Beta vulgaris
Plant group:
Dicotyledonae (dicots)
Details on test organisms:
Common name: sugar beet
Variety: Achat
PSeeds prchased from: Strube-Dieckmann GmbH & Co. KG, Söllingen
Batch: SD04-04-07-19
Determined germination rate: 94%
Species:
Brassica napus
Plant group:
Dicotyledonae (dicots)
Details on test organisms:
Common name: oilseed rape
Variety: Express
Seeds purchased from: Saaten-Union GmbH, Isernhagen
Batch: SU03-04-07-17
Determined germination rate: 96%
Species:
other: Spinacia oleracea
Plant group:
Dicotyledonae (dicots)
Details on test organisms:
Common name: spinach
Variety: Lavewa
Seeds purchased from: N.L. Chrestensen, Erfurt
Batch: 455815
Determined germination rate: 94%
Species:
Pisum sativum
Plant group:
Dicotyledonae (dicots)
Details on test organisms:
Common name: pea
Variety: Maxigolt
Seeds purchased from: Dehner Gartencenter, Taucha
Batch: 2924
Determined germination rate: 90%
Species:
Triticum aestivum
Plant group:
Monocotyledonae (monocots)
Details on test organisms:
Common name: wheat
Variety: Tommi
Seeds purchased from: Saaten-Union GmbH, Isernhagen
Batch: SU03-04-07-18
Determined germination rate: 98%
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Plant group:
Monocotyledonae (monocots)
Details on test organisms:
Common name: leek
Variety: Genita
Seeds purchased from: Dehner Gartencenter, Taucha
Batch: 1665
Determined germination rate: 88%
Test type:
early seedling growth toxicity test
Study type:
laboratory study
Substrate type:
artificial soil
Limit test:
no
Total exposure duration:
21 d
Remarks:
21 days after 50% seedling emergence in the control group
Test temperature:
16-36°C (short-term temperature over 40°C)
pH:
pH test soil: 5.9
pH at day 0: 5.9 - 9.4
pH at end test: 5.7 - 9.0
Moisture:
Relative humidity: 25-92% (short-term relative humidity under 45%)
Details on test conditions:
PREPARATION
The test item was incorporated directly into the soil by mixing with the soil in a mixing machine.

TEST CONDITIONS
Test pot: plastic flower pot (Ø 15 cm), amount 1.0 kg
Number of plants/pot: 3 for Pisum sativum, 4 for Brassica napus, Beta vulgaris and Spinacia oleracea and 5 for Triticum aestivum and Allium porrum.
Number of pots: 14 for Pisum sativum, 10 for Brassica napus, Beta vulgaris and Spinacia oleracea and 8 for Triticum aestivum and Allium porrum.
Number of seeds/treatment: 40-42
Fertilising: Pflanzenvollnahrung (Dehner Gartenzentrum)
Fertilizer nutrients: 4% N, 3% P2O5 and 3% K2O
Fertilizer dressing: once, 7 days after germination
Fertilizer solution: 100 ml/pot
Irrigation: daily with 40 ml tap water (room temperature, pH 7.3 and conductivity 580 µs/cm)

CLIMATIC TEST CONDITIONS
Relative humidity: 25-92% (short-term relative humidity under 45%)
Illumination: light period: 16 h (including 6h HQL-light)
Nominal and measured concentrations:
Nominal concentrations: 0, 0.51, 1.08, 2.27, 4.76 and 10.0 g test item/kg soil dry weight.
Reference substance (positive control):
no
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
5.64 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
seedling emergence
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 2.27 g/kg dw
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LC50
Effect conc.:
10.83 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling survival
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
3.53 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw; LOEC: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
Beta vulgaris
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (7 days) and survival (21 days)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
Beta vulgaris
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
3.8 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 1.08 g/kg dw; LOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw
Species:
Brassica napus
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (day 7) and survival (day 21)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 10 g/kg dw
Species:
Brassica napus
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
4.15 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 1.08 g/kg dw; LOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw
Species:
Pisum sativum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (7 days) and survival (21 days)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
Pisum sativum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
6.18 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw; LOEC: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
other: Spinacea oleracea
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (7 days) and survival (21 days)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
other: Spinacea oleracea
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
2.67 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 1.08 g/kg dw; LOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw
Species:
Triticum aestivum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (day 7) and survival (day 21)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 10 g/kg dw
Species:
Triticum aestivum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
5.14 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw; LOEC: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
not specified
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Triticum aestivum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Brassica napus
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
1.08 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Beta vulgaris
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
1.08 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
other: Spinacia oleracea
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
1.08 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Pisum sativum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
4.76 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Triticum aestivum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
4.76 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Brassica napus
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Beta vulgaris
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
other: Spinacia oleracea
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Pisum sativum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
4.76 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Details on results:
Seedling emergence in the control: ≥ 70%
Mean survival of emerged control seedlings: ≥ 90%
Seedling do not exhibit visible phytotoxic effects in the control and the plants exhibit only normal variation growth and morphology for that particular species.

Upon addition of the test item to the soil, a rapid increase in soil pH from 6.1 to 6.9, 7.7, 8.4, 8.9 and 9.4 respectively was observed. The soil pH decreased again during the course of the study. Additional pH measurements of soil samples were analysed without air-drying. The results indicate that the initial soil pH was underestimated as a result of carbonisation of the test item during air-drying of the soil samples.

Growth inhibition was observed in all plants especially at 4.76 and 10 g/kg dw.
Validity criteria fulfilled:
yes
Conclusions:
The results of the test indicate that of the six crop species tested, the dicotyledonae Brassica napus, Beta vulgaris and Spinacia oleracea and the monocytyledonae Allium porrum were most sensitive to the effects of Calcium dihydroxide (hydrated lime). Survival after seedling emergence (LC50) was only affected in the monocotyledonae Allium porrum.
Upon addition of the test item to the soil, a dose-dependent increase in soil pH was observed. In the course of the study, the pH value decreased. The increase in pH value of the soil after addition of Calcium dihydroxide is considered to determine the toxicity to plants.
Endpoint:
toxicity to terrestrial plants: short-term
Type of information:
experimental study
Adequacy of study:
supporting study
Study period:
26 March 2010 to 16 August 2010
Reliability:
1 (reliable without restriction)
Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:
guideline study
Qualifier:
according to guideline
Guideline:
OECD Guideline 208 (Terrestrial Plants Test: Seedling Emergence and Seedling Growth Test)
Deviations:
no
GLP compliance:
yes (incl. QA statement)
Analytical monitoring:
no
Vehicle:
no
Details on preparation and application of test substrate:
- Method of mixing into soil (if used): The test material was added directly to the soil. An amount of test material (10.2 g) was mixed with approximately 200 g of sand prior to incorporation into 5.05 kg of sand and 5.1 kg (dry weight) of soil using a Hobart A200N mixer to give the 1000 mg/kg test concentration.
- Controls: The control was prepared by mixing 5.45 kg sand with 5.1 kg (dry weight) of soil without the addition of test item.
Species:
Glycine max (G. soja)
Plant group:
Dicotyledonae (dicots)
Details on test organisms:
- Common name: Soybean
- Variety: Amsoy
- Source of seed: Herbiseed, New Farm, Mire Lane, West End, Twyford, UK
- Prior seed treatment/sterilization: None
- Historical germination of seed (germination of seed lot tested): 86%
- Seed storage: Upon arrival the seeds were stored under cool, dry conditions.
Species:
Lycopersicon esculentum
Plant group:
Dicotyledonae (dicots)
Details on test organisms:
- Common name: Tomato
- Variety: Orange Pixie
- Source of seed: Herbiseed, New Farm, Mire Lane, West End, Twyford, UK
- Prior seed treatment/sterilization: None
- Historical germination of seed (germination of seed lot tested): 91%
- Seed storage: Upon arrival the seeds were stored under cool, dry conditions.
Species:
Avena sativa
Plant group:
Monocotyledonae (monocots)
Details on test organisms:
- Common name: Oat
- Variety: SW Argyle
- Source of seed: Senova Ltd., 49 North Road, Great Abington, Cambridge, UK
- Prior seed treatment/sterilization: None
- Historical germination of seed (germination of seed lot tested): 87%
- Seed storage: Upon arrival the seeds were stored under cool, dry conditions.
Test type:
other: seedling emergence and growth test
Study type:
laboratory study
Substrate type:
artificial soil
Limit test:
yes
Total exposure duration:
21 d
Test temperature:
13 - 39 °C
Moisture:
25 - 87%
Details on test conditions:
TEST SYSTEM
- Testing facility: A greenhouse at Harlan Laboratories Ltd, Shardlow Business Park, Shardlow, Derbyshire, DE72 2GD, UK
- Test container (type, material, size): The exposure vessels consisted of polypropylene pots with a depth of 9.9 cm and a diameter of 13 cm. After planting, each pot was placed in a plant saucer which served as a sub-irrigation reservoir. Initial watering was via the surface to encourage germination. All subsequent watering was by sub-irrigation as required.
- Amount of soil: Each pot contained approximately 850 g (dry weight) of substrate.
- No. of seeds per container: 5 seeds/ container
- No. of replicates per treatment group: 4 replicates
- No. of replicates per control: 4 replicates

SOURCE AND PROPERTIES OF SUBSTRATE (if soil)
- Soil classification system: sandy loam
- Composition (if artificial substrate):
- Organic carbon (%): 1.5%
- Pretreatment of soil: The soil was characterised as a sandy loam with 3.8% organic matter content and a pH of 8.0. The organic matter content of the soil was in excess of the 1% to 3% given in the study plan. Therefore the soil was mixed 50:50 w/w with sand prior to use which resulted in an organic carbon content of 1.5% (equivalent to 3% organic matter).

GROWTH CONDITIONS
- Photoperiod: 16 hours light and 8 hours darkness
- Day/night temperatures: 13 - 39 °C
- Relative humidity (%): 25 - 87%
- Watering regime and schedules: After the initial watering the pots were watered as necessary using sub-irrigation.

EFFECT PARAMETERS MEASURED: All the pots were monitored daily after sowing for emergence and the date when 50% emergence occurred in the control pots for each species was recorded. For 21 days following 50% emergence in the control pots, the number of seedlings emerged and any mortalities and/or morphological abnormalities were determined daily in the test and control pots for each species. On Day 21 the above ground portion of each seedling was harvested and the dry weight determined by placing in pre-weighed containers and drying in an oven at approximately 60°C.

TEST CONCENTRATIONS
- Range finding study
- Test concentrations: nominal test concentrations of 100 and 1000 mg/kg
- Results used to determine the conditions for the definitive study: During the range-finding test the soybean failed to emerge due to an unknown factor. As a result, the concentrations to be used for the definitive test were based on the results from the remaining two species only.
There were no significant differences (P≥0.05) between the control and all the test groups in terms of emergence at test termination for tomato and oat.
There were no significant decreases in shoot dry weight (P≥0.05) between the control and all the test groups at test termination for tomato and oat.
Based on this information, a single test concentration of four replicates, of 1000 mg/kg was selected for each species for the definitive test. This experimental design conforms to a "Limit test" to confirm that at the maximum test concentration given in the OECD/EEC Test Guidelines no effect on seedling emergence or morphological abnormalities were observed.
Nominal and measured concentrations:
Nominal concentration: 1000 mg/kg
Reference substance (positive control):
no
Species:
other: All species tested (soybean, tomato and oat)
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
> 1 000 mg/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Basis for effect:
seedling emergence
Species:
other: All species tested (soybean, tomato and oat)
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
> 1 000 mg/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Basis for effect:
growth
Species:
other: All species tested (soybean, tomato and oat)
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
1 000 mg/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Basis for effect:
other: growth and seedling emergence
Details on results:
EMERGENCE DATA
Soybean (Glycine max), tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) and oat (Avena sativa) reached 50% emergence in the control on Day 6, 7 and 6 respectively after sowing.
There were no significant differences (P≥0.05) between the control and 1000 mg/kg test group in terms of seedling emergence.

MORPHOLOGICAL EFFECTS
No morphological abnormalities were observed for each species throughout the test.

SHOOT DRY WEIGHT DATA
There were no significant differences (P≥0.05) between the control and 1000 mg/kg test group in terms of shoot dry weight at test termination for all three species.

Some of the temperatures were observed to be outside the 10°C to 35 °C range given in the study plan. This deviation was considered not to affect the integrity or the outcome of the study as no morphological abnormalities were observed throughout the test. 

Table 1: Percentage Emergence of Soybean (Glycine max) in the Definitive Test

Crop

Concentration

(mg/kg)

Replicate

% emergence

Mean

Standard deviation

Soybean

(Glycine max)

Control

1

60

75

30

2

100

3

100

4

40

1000

1

60

50

12

2

40

3

60

4

40

 

 

Table 2: Percentage Emergence of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) in the Definitive Test

Crop

Concentration

(mg/kg)

Replicate

% emergence

Mean

Standard deviation

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)

Control

1

80

70

12

2

60

3

60

4

80

1000

1

40

55

19

2

60

3

80

4

40

 

 

Table 3: Percentage Emergence of Oat (Avena sativa) in the Definitive Test

Crop

Concentration

(mg/kg)

Replicate

% emergence

Mean

Standard deviation

Oat (Avena sativa)

Control

1

60

70

20

2

60

3

100

4

60

1000

1

60

75

30

2

100

3

40

4

100

 

 

Table 4: Shoot Mean Dry Weights - Soybean (Glycine max)

Crop

Concentration

(mg/kg)

Replicate

Replicate weight

(g)

Overall

Mean

Standard deviation

Mean

Standard deviation

Soybean

(Glycine max)

Control

1

0.4170

0.0123

0.3494

0.1066

2

0.2879

0.0446

3

0.3181

0.0912

4

0.6114

N/A

1000

1

0.3251

0.0193

0.3255

0.0535

2

0.3385

0.0863

3

0.2984

0.0791

4

0.3540

0.0307

 

 

Table 5: Shoot Mean Dry Weights -Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)

Crop

Concentration

(mg/kg)

Replicate

Replicate weight

(g)

Overall

Mean

Standard deviation

Mean

Standard deviation

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)

Control

1

0.1267

0.1021

0.1257

0.0680

2

0.0862

0.0109

3

0.1726

0.0301

4

0.1171

0.0727

1000

1

0.0693

0.0497

0.0795

0.0867

2

0.0607

0.0962

3

0.0888

0.1070

4

0.0990

0.1322

 

 

Table 6: Shoot Mean Dry Weights -Oat (Avena sativa)

Crop

Concentration

(mg/kg)

Replicate

Replicate weight

(g)

Overall

Mean

Standard deviation

Mean

Standard deviation

Oat (Avena sativa)

Control

1

0.1155

0.0900

0.1464

0.0678

2

0.1615

0.0556

3

0.1201

0.0410

4

0.1972

0.0828

1000

1

0.1377

0.0741

0.1256

0.0595

2

0.1085

0.0358

3

0.1045

0.1201

4

0.1438

0.0603

 

Validity criteria fulfilled:
yes
Remarks:
All the validity criteria specified in OECD TG 208 are satisfied
Conclusions:
The toxicity of calcium carbonate (nano) to three species of plant (soybean, tomato and oat) has been investigated and gave a 21 day EC50 of >1000 mg/kg dw soil based on both the seedling emergence and growth. Correspondingly the NOEC was 1000 mg/kg dw soil.
This study showed that there were no toxic effects to plants at the concentration tested.
Endpoint:
toxicity to terrestrial plants: long-term
Data waiving:
study scientifically not necessary / other information available
Justification for data waiving:
other:
Justification for type of information:
JUSTIFICATION FOR DATA WAIVING
According to Section 9.4.6 of REACH Regulation 1907/2006, long term toxicity testing on plants is required. However, such a study is not applicable to calcium carbonate for the following reasons: Calcium carbonate and calcium and carbonate ions are ubiquitous in the environment and are found naturally in soil, water and sediment. Calcium is an important constituent of most soils and the minerals found in soil are mostly compounds of calcium with other substances. Furthermore, calcium carbonate is used as an inorganic fertiliser to improve soil quality, both pH and structure and guarantees an adequate supply of calcium to plants. Soil calcium is necessary for proper plant functions and helps in producing healthy fruits and flowers. Some of the functions that require soil calcium include enzyme activity for the absorption of other nutrients, proper cell formation and division, increased metabolic activities, starch breakdown and nitrate uptake. Without soil calcium plants tend to lose their colour, have a short life and produce little or no fruit. Many fertilisers available today make use of calcium and calcium-rich salts to neutralise soils and make them less acidic. Calcium has strong relationships with other substances found in the soil like magnesium, potassium and sodium. Together these nutrients make the soil so rich that almost all kinds of plants can be grown with it. Soil calcium is mainly important for lowering the pH level and the associated acidity. It is often recommended to include up to 40 – 50% of calcium in any fertilizer to account for its deficiency in the soil. The resulting plants will have stronger roots and better growth rate than a calcium deficient soil. In addition to this, calcium also helps in regulating the flow of water and air in the soil for proper absorption by the plant cells. Calcium is known as an essential nutrient for higher plants and one of the basic inorganic elements of algae. Calcium plays crucial roles in strengthening cell walls and plant tissues, reducing the toxicity of soluble organic acids, elongating roots, and so on. The calcium content of plants varies between 0.1 and > 0.5% of the dry weight depending on the growing conditions, plant species, and plant organ. In well-balanced growing nutrient solutions with controlled pH, maximal growth rates were obtained at calcium supply levels of 2.5-100 uM. Also, calcium can be supplied at higher concentrations and might reach more than 10% of the dry weight without symptoms of serious inhibition of plant growth, at least in calcicole plant species. Typical symptoms of calcium deficiency are the disintegration of cell walls and the collapse of the affected tissues, such as the petioles and upper parts of the stems. Lower calcium contents in fleshy fruits also increase the losses caused by enhanced senescence of the tissue and by fungal infections. Furthermore, a seedling emergence and growth test was performed according to OECD 208 using a concentration of calcium carbonate (nano) of 1000 mg/kg dw soil (Goodband, 2010). No toxic effects were observed at the concentration tested. As a result, calcium carbonate is considered not toxic to plants and hence long term testing is considered to be unnecessary. Given the extensive and continued use of calcium carbonate as a constituent of fertiliser and its natural occurrence in the environment, it is considered that calcium carbonate would not have a detrimental effect on plants at the concentrations released to soil. Therefore, the performance of long term toxicity tests on plants is scientifically unjustified.
Endpoint:
toxicity to terrestrial plants: short-term
Type of information:
read-across from supporting substance (structural analogue or surrogate)
Adequacy of study:
key study
Justification for type of information:
REPORTING FORMAT FOR THE ANALOGUE APPROACH

1. HYPOTHESIS FOR THE ANALOGUE APPROACH
Common functional groups/mechanism of action.

2. SOURCE AND TARGET CHEMICAL(S) (INCLUDING INFORMATION ON PURITY AND IMPURITIES)
Target: Lime (chemical), hydraulic [CAS 85117-09-5; See section 1.2 for information on purity.
Source: calcium dihydroxide [CAS 1305-62-0; EC 215-137-3] 98.2%

3. ANALOGUE APPROACH JUSTIFICATION
In the environment, lime substances rapidly dissociate or react with water. These reactions, together with the equivalent amount of hydroxyl ions set free when considering 100mg of the lime compound (hypothetic example), are illustrated below:
Ca(OH)2 <-> Ca2+ + 2OH-
100 mg Ca(OH)2 or 1.35 mmol sets free 2.70 mmol OH-
Ca(OH)2 + Ca2SiO4 + CaCO3 + 3 H2O <-> 4Ca2+ + SiO2 + CO2 + 8OH-
100 mg lime (chemical) hydraulic or 0.27 mmol sets free 2.16 mmol OH-
It has to be noted that CO32- is not expected to directly release two hydroxyl ions under most environmental conditions (depends on CO2 concentrations and pH) and this is therefore a worst case assumption.
From these reactions it is clear that the effect of lime (chemical) hydraulic will be caused either by calcium or hydroxyl ions. Since calcium is abundantly present in the environment and since the effect concentrations are within the same order of magnitude of its natural concentration, it can be assumed that the adverse effects are mainly caused by the pH increase caused by the hydroxyl ions. Furthermore, the above mentioned calculations show that the base equivalents are within a factor 2 for lime (chemical) hydraulic and calcium hydroxide. As such, it can be reasonably expected that the effect on pH of lime (chemical) hydraulic is comparable to calcium hydroxide for a same application on a weight basis. Consequently, read-across from calcium hydroxide to lime (chemical) hydraulic is justified.

4. DATA MATRIX
Source: No studies available
Target:
21-day seedling growth test according to OECD 208 with 6 plant species; nominal NOEC varies between 1080 and 2270 mg Ca(OH)2/kg soil dw.
Reason / purpose for cross-reference:
read-across source
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
5.64 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
seedling emergence
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 2.27 g/kg dw
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LC50
Effect conc.:
10.83 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling survival
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
3.53 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw; LOEC: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
Beta vulgaris
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (7 days) and survival (21 days)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
Beta vulgaris
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
3.8 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 1.08 g/kg dw; LOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw
Species:
Brassica napus
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (day 7) and survival (day 21)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 10 g/kg dw
Species:
Brassica napus
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
4.15 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 1.08 g/kg dw; LOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw
Species:
Pisum sativum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (7 days) and survival (21 days)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
Pisum sativum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
6.18 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw; LOEC: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
other: Spinacea oleracea
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (7 days) and survival (21 days)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
other: Spinacea oleracea
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
2.67 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 1.08 g/kg dw; LOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw
Species:
Triticum aestivum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
other: EC50 and LC50
Effect conc.:
> 10 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: seedling emergence (day 7) and survival (day 21)
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC for seedling emergence: 10 g/kg dw
Species:
Triticum aestivum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
EC50
Effect conc.:
5.14 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Remarks on result:
other: NOEC: 2.27 g/kg dw; LOEC: 4.76 g/kg dw
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
not specified
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Triticum aestivum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Brassica napus
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
1.08 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Beta vulgaris
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
1.08 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
other: Spinacia oleracea
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
1.08 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Pisum sativum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
NOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
other: Allium porrum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
4.76 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Triticum aestivum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
4.76 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Brassica napus
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Beta vulgaris
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
other: Spinacia oleracea
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
2.27 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight
Species:
Pisum sativum
Duration:
21 d
Dose descriptor:
LOEC
Effect conc.:
4.76 g/kg soil dw
Nominal / measured:
nominal
Conc. based on:
test mat.
Remarks:
Ca(OH)2
Basis for effect:
other: shoot fresh weight

Description of key information

Klimisch 1 study (Friedrich; 2007): 21-day seedling growth test for Ca(OH)2 according to OECD 208 with 6 plant species; nominal NOEC varies between 1080 and 2270 mg Ca(OH)2/kg soil dw.

Klimisch 1 study (Goodband; 2010): 21 -day seedling emergence and growth test for calcium carbonate (nano) to three species of plant; 21 day EC50 >1000 mg/kg dw soil and NOEC = 1000 mg/kg dw soil.

Key value for chemical safety assessment

Long-term EC10, LC10 or NOEC for terrestrial plants:
1 080 mg/kg soil dw

Additional information

The short term toxicity to plants of calcium dihydroxide (hydrated lime) was assessed in a study performed to OECD TG 208 under GLP (Friedrich, 2007c). The study assessed the effects on seedling emergence and growth of calcium dihydroxide to six species of plant (sugar beet, oilseed rape, spinach, pea, wheat and leek). The results of the test indicate that of the six species tested, oilseed rape, sugar beet, spinach and leek were most sensitive to the effects of calcium dihydroxide. Survival after seedling emergence (LC50) was only affected in leeks. Upon addition of the test item to the soil, a dose-dependent increase in soil pH was observed. In the course of the study, the pH value decreased. The increase in pH value of the soil after addition of calcium dihydroxide is considered to determine the toxicity to plants.

The short term toxicity to plants of calcium carbonate (nano) was assessed in a study performed to OECD TG 208 under GLP (Goodband, 2010). The study assessed the effects on seedling emergence and growth of calcium carbonate (nano) to three species of plant (soybean, tomato and oat) in a limit test. No toxic effects on either growth or seedling emergence were noted at the concentration tested. Hence, the 21 day EC50 for calcium carbonate (nano) was found to be >1000 mg/kg dw soil and the NOEC was 1000 mg/kg dw soil.

No long-term studies are available for calcium carbonate, but given the ubiquitous nature of calcium and carbonate ions in the environment and the use of calcium carbonate as an inorganic fertiliser to improve soil quality, both pH and structure, and to guarantee an adequate supply of calcium to plants no long term detrimental effects are expected from exposure of plants to calcium carbonate.

Both calcium dihydroxide and calcium carbonate gave similar 21-day NOEC values in OECD TG 208 studies of 1080 and 1000 mg/kg soil dw, respectively. Therefore, it may be concluded that grades of hydraulic lime (chemical) containing up to 40% calcium carbonate will have similar toxicity to plants. In fact, it could be argued that due to the much lower solubility of calcium carbonate, the pH-related effects seen at higher concentrations of calcium dihydroxide would not occur to the same extent in grades of lime (chemical) hydraulic with a high calcium carbonate content.