Terms and definitions B
Bioaccumulation:
Net result of uptake, transformation and elimination of a substance in an organism due to all routes of exposure (i.e. air, water, sediment/soil and food). [Source: GHS]
Bioavailability:
Rate and extent to which an agent can be absorbed by an organism and is available for metabolism or interaction with biologically significant receptors. Bioavailability involves both release from a medium (if present) and absorption by an organism. [Source: IPCS]
Bioconcentration:
Net result of uptake, transformation and elimination of a substance in an organism due to waterborne exposure. [Source: GHS]
Bioconcentration factor (BCF):
Measure of the tendency for a substance in water to accumulate in organisms, especially fish. [Source: IUPAC]
Biodegradation:
Breakdown of a substance catalyzed by enzymes in vitro or in vivo. [Source: IUPAC]
Biological control agent:
Natural enemy, antagonist or competitor, or other organism, used for pest control [Source: IPPC]
Biomagnification:
Sequence of processes in an ecosystem by which higher concentrations are attained in organisms at higher trophic levels (at higher levels in the food web). [Source: IUPAC]