An integrated assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and benthic macroinvertebrate communities in Isle Royale National Park

► Concentrations of PAHs in sediment from marinas exceeded the threshold effect level. ► Survival of Hyalella azteca was reduced when exposed to sediments from marinas. ► Macroinvertebrate abundance and richness were similar at reference and marina sites. ► Abundance of PAH-sensitive amphipods (Diporeia spp.) was reduced at marinas. ► A weight-of-evidence approach was required to demonstrate ecological effects.