Aquatic biotas are continuously exposed to multiple stressors, whether those be chemical or abiotic (for example acidity). Although this understanding of the presence of multiple stressors is common knowledge, the vast amount of research focuses on individual stressors. Additionally, most regulatory efforts are focused on effects based on single stressors in aquatic systems. This presentation will focus on two studies – a field-based sediment ecological risk assessment in mining areas of Tasmania and a laboratory ecotoxicological assessment of Alberta hydraulic fracturing flowback and produced water. This presentation will highlight the complexity of conducting ecological risk assessments in environmental matrices with multiple stressors.

Additionally, Tyler is part of a diverse group in Greg Goss's laboratory at the University of Alberta. Dr. Goss's research program is aimed in three different but integrative areas including environmental physiology of fishes, environmental toxicology, and watershed science. Tyler will discuss some of the recent developments and work being conducted in the lab in these areas.