1. tending to accumulate in living organisms over time, especially through the food chain, reaching higher concentrations in organisms at higher trophic levels
Usage: technical; commonly used in environmental science and toxicology

Examples

• Mercury is a bioaccumulative substance that builds up in fish and poses health risks to consumers.
• The pesticide DDT is highly bioaccumulative and was banned in many countries due to its persistence in ecosystems.
• Scientists monitor bioaccumulative pollutants in marine mammals to assess ocean contamination.
• Bioaccumulative toxins can reach dangerous levels in predators at the top of the food chain.
• The chemical's bioaccumulative properties make it a concern for long-term environmental health.