Iron ores, agglomerates

Toxicity to birds

Administrative data

Endpoint:

toxicity to birds

Type of information:

migrated information: read-across from supporting substance (structural analogue or surrogate)

Reliability:

2 (reliable with restrictions)

Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:

other: see 'Remark'

Remarks:

The structure of iron ore pellets consists essentially of iron oxide grains. The bonding of the grains occur by oxide bridging, recrystallisation of hematite and to a lesser extent by the formation of fused silicate phases. Since silicates are inert and no effect on the environment is expected, the endpoints in Chapters 5 and 6 are based on the effects of iron as a worst case in these substances. More information on the justification of read across can be found in the attached document in the endpoint summaries of section 5 and 6.

Data waiving:

study scientifically not necessary / other information available

Justification for data waiving:

other:

Applicant's summary and conclusion

Conclusions:

Avian toxicity data are used in the assessment of secondary poisoning risks for the aquatic and terrestrial food chains Iron is an essential trace
element, well regulated in all living organisms. The available evidence shows the absence of iron biomagnification across the tropic chain both in the
aquatic and terrestrial food chains. The existing information suggests not only that iron does not biomagnify, but rather that it tends to exhibit
biodilution. Therefore the need for additional testing for secondary poisoning can be waived.