TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax 01-972-952-9435. AbstractThe ecological effects of acute oil releases into marine systems, such as occurs in major oil spill incidents, have been well documented. Less information has been collected together on the effects of chronic oil inputs, such as produced formation water discharges or municipal/industrial run-off into oceans, which are of greater frequency and total quantity. A review of existing field and laboratory knowledge has been conducted and the results analysed with respect to oil type and source, habitats at risk and species impacted.The results are discussed under key themes including habitats/ecosystems and the basis for assessing ecological risk. Some gaps in knowledge have been identified and suggestions made for future work to address scientific and regulatory needs. Fig. 3− Vulnerability of marine communities to chronic and press hydrocarbon contamination.

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