Bioluminescent Test as an Effective Component in Agrochemical and Ecotoxicological Analysis of the Condition and Quality of Agricultural Soils

This study evaluates the potential of the bioluminescent test as an effective component in the agrochemical and ecotoxicological assessment of agricultural soils. Thirteen soil samples, collected from different regions of Ukraine and representing different taxonomic soil types belonging to Mollisols and Entisols, were analyzed. The ecotoxicity level (E) was determined using bioluminescent sensor elements based on bacterial strains with natural luminescence (Vibrio fisсheri F1, Vibrio harveyi Ms1, Photobacterium phosphoreum B7071) or induced (Аlcaligenes eutrophus 1239, Pseudomonas fragi T2(5)) luminescence. Standard agrochemical characterization was conducted in accordance with the Recommended Chemical Soil Test Procedures for the North Central Region (NCR-221). The concentrations of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Co, Ni, As, Cd, Hg, Pb, Cr) were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Comparative analysis was performed between the results obtained by the bioluminescent test, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)-extraction method, and the quantification of heavy metals in aqueous soil extracts using ICP-MS. The results demonstrate that the bioluminescent test reliably reflects the contribution of the bioavailable fraction of toxicants to the overall ecotoxicity level. Thus, it can serve as a valuable component of integrated agrochemical and ecotoxicological diagnostics of soils. The combined application of classical soil analysis methods and bioluminescent tests provides a predictive and integrated framework for comprehensive soil quality and environmental risk assessment.