What term describes the process of a toxic substance being increasingly stored in body tissue?

The correct term that describes the process of a toxic substance being increasingly stored in body tissue is bioaccumulation. This phenomenon occurs when an organism absorbs a toxic substance at a rate faster than it can be eliminated. Over time, these substances accumulate within the organism's tissues, leading to higher concentrations than those found in the surrounding environment.

Bioaccumulation is significant in understanding environmental health because it highlights how pollutants can persist in living organisms, potentially causing adverse health effects. This process can occur in various organisms, including fish, plants, and mammals, and is especially relevant for substances that are persistent and lipophilic, meaning they tend to dissolve in fats rather than water.

This understanding is crucial when evaluating the risk these substances pose to humans and wildlife, particularly in ecosystems where food chains exist, as organisms at higher trophic levels may consume those with accumulated toxins, leading to further health implications.