In the paper the authors describe test methods utilizing the aquatic oligochaete Lumbriculus variegatus to assess the acute and chronic toxicity and the presence of bioaccumulatable compounds in contaminated sediments. Lumbriculus variegatus was chosen as a test species because (1) it represents an ecologically relevant component of freshwater ecosystems (i.e., oligochaetes); (2) it is suitable for long-term testing and evaluation of chronic toxicity end points (e.g., growth, reproduction); (3) it is exposed via all important routes of concern, including ingestion of contaminated particles; and (4) it has sufficient biomass to assess bioaccumulation of contaminants. Also, Lumbriculus variegatus is easily cultured and handled. Described herein are culturing procedures and test protocols (e.g., test length, sample size, feeding, etc.) for Lumbriculus variegatus, as well as two examples of the types of experimental data generated when using the oligochaete in tests with contaminated sediments. (Copyright (c) 1993 Pergammon Press Ltd.)