1. the gradual accumulation of a substance (such as a toxic chemical or heavy metal) in the tissues of a living organism over time
Usage: commonly used in environmental science and toxicology; often discussed in the context of food chains and ecosystems

Examples

• Mercury undergoes bioaccumulation in fish, reaching dangerous levels in larger predators.
• The pesticide showed significant bioaccumulation in the bodies of birds at the top of the food chain.
• Scientists study bioaccumulation to understand how pollutants move through ecosystems.
• Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in crops can pose health risks to consumers.
• The long half-life of the chemical increases the risk of bioaccumulation in human tissues.
• Regulatory agencies monitor bioaccumulation rates to set safe exposure limits.