Combined Bioassays and X-Ray Spectroscopy for Studying the Bioavailability of Arsenic in Contaminated Soils Using Earthworms

Arsenic (As) is a metalloid element, often found in soils and wastes around mines and industrial sites treating As-bare minerals. The assessment of the bioavailability of As in these soils is crucial in order to protect human and ecosystems health. Earthworms are often used to assess the bioavailability of As in soils (Langdon et al., 2003). In this work, Eisenia andrei was exposed to As-polluted soils from two sites in Italy (Valle Anzasca and Scarlino). Different X-ray based techniques and bioassays were used to evaluate the concentration, speciation and distribution of the As both in soils and earthworms.