The animals of chernobyl and fukushima

Abstract

Significant progress has been made in the past decade towards a better understanding of the genetic, developmental and ecological consequences of low-dose ionizing radiation (LDIR) on natural populations. Here, we review key studies of animals living under natural conditions in regions affected by the Chernobyl and Fukushima nuclear accidents. Most studies show significant genetic damage related to radiation exposure, with consequent effects on reproduction, development, fertility, and population growth rates. Of particular note are the findings of eye cataracts, tumors, smaller brain size, and fewer or abnormal sperm with the frequency of occurrence generally following a dose-response-like relationship with ambient radiation levels. All animal groups surveyed in Chernobyl showed smaller population abundances in regions of high radiation, although not all species responded to the same degree and a few species even give the appearance of having adapted to some degree. In the more radioactive regions of Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, bird abundances have steadily dropped since the time of the accident, with declines following a linear dose response based on a novel dose reconstruction approach. Overall, the parallels observed between radiation effects on animals in Chernobyl and Fukushima provide additional evidence for the significant ecological consequences of nuclear accidents, and ionizing radiation in general.