nuclear-news

Chernobyl’s largest wildlife census shows radiation harm

“The truth is that these radiation contamination effects were so large as to be overwhelming,” …..the team observed birds with tumours on their feet, necks and around their eyes.

Chernobyl zone shows decline in biodiversity, BBC News, 30 July 2010 By Victoria Gill The largest wildlife census of its kind conducted in Chernobyl has revealed that mammals are declining in the exclusion zone surrounding the nuclear power plant.

The study aimed to establish the most reliable way to measure the impact on wildlife of contamination in the zone.

It was based on almost four years of counting and studying animals there.

The research team say that their census of species in the zone – which was carried out for more than three years – provides more evidence that contamination has a “significant impact” on biodiversity.

Professor Timothy Mousseau from the University of South Carolina, US, and Dr Anders Moller from the University of Paris-Sud, France, worked together on the project.

From 2006-2009, they counted and examined wildlife including insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.

Their previously published work revealed some of the negative impacts on birds and on insects of the low-level radiation that still contaminated the exclusion zone surrounding the power plant.

The new data on mammals and reptiles shows what Professor Moussaeu described as a “strong signal” of reduced biodiversity in these groups too……..

“The truth is that these radiation contamination effects were so large as to be overwhelming,” Professor Mousseau told BBC News.

During their census work, he and Dr Moller have also examined the effects of radiation contamination on the animals. They say that these impacts are particularly obvious in birds.

In their studies on barn swallows, the team observed birds with tumours on their feet, necks and around their eyes.

“We think they may be more susceptible, after their long migrations, to additional environmental stress,” explained Professor Mousseau…….

Professor Mousseau said the evidence of an increase in biodiversity in the region is “purely anecdotal”.

“This is the first paper that provides quantitative, rigorous data that the mammals really are significantly affected by contamination,” he told BBC News.

BBC News – Chernobyl zone shows decline in biodiversity

July 31, 2010 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | environment, Ukraine | antinuclear, nuclear, nuclear secrecy, nuclear spin, radiation, reactors