Growth inhibition in early life-stage tests predicts full life-cycle toxicity effects of lead in the freshwater pulmonate snail, Lymnaea stagnalis

► The ability of ELS snail survival/growth tests to predict full life-cycle results was investigated using Lymnaea stagnalis exposed to Pb for 56 d. ► Snail growth at 28 d was more sensitive than at 56 d, indicating snails partially recovered from early life stage effects. ► Snail reproduction was effected at the same concentration (1 μg L−1) as 28 d growth. ► Results indicate 28 d growth is predictive (within a factor of 3) of full life-cycle results and should be acceptable for setting WQ standards.