From black frogs to new dog breeds, radiation exposure has caused mutations in many animal species living near Chernobyl, Ukraine. However, a new study shows that not all animals in the Chernobyl exclusion zone respond in this manner.
On April 26, 1986, a reactor at the nuclear power plant in Chernobyl, Ukraine (then part of the Soviet Union) exploded. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated in 2005 that around 4,000 people may have died from radiation-related illnesses due to Chernobyl. Following the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, an exclusion zone covering over 4,000 km2 was established. Additionally, a massive dome was placed over the fourth reactor of the Chernobyl plant in 2016.
The worm species in Chernobyl, Ukraine have developed special abilities. (Photo: Daily Mail).
In a recent study, scientists found that the worms living near the world’s most famous nuclear disaster seem to have developed a new strength: immunity to radiation.
The Independent reported on March 7 that scientists visited Chernobyl to study roundworms, which have a simple genetic structure and reproduce quickly.
They collected worms from soil samples, rotting fruit, and various other materials, then tested the local radiation levels. The scientists later brought the worms back to New York University (USA) to freeze and study them.
Dr. Sophia Tintor, who participated in the study, shared with the Daily Mail: “We still do not fully understand the impact of the disaster on local organisms. Did the sudden environmental changes select for species, or even individuals within a species, that can naturally resist ionizing radiation better?”
After the disaster in 1986, animals continued to live in the Chernobyl area despite nearly 40 years of radiation. Previous researchers discovered that the animal species living in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone have genetic differences compared to similar species elsewhere.
Professor Matthew Rockman from New York University (USA) added: “These worms live everywhere and have short life cycles, so they undergo dozens of generations of evolution much faster than typical vertebrate species.”
Researchers found that despite the high radiation levels, the worms’ genetic makeup was not damaged. Meanwhile, Dr. Sophia Tintor noted that this fascinating discovery does not imply that Chernobyl is safe, but it does show that worms are resilient creatures capable of enduring harsh conditions. Twenty different genetically distinct worm species were tested for DNA damage to assess whether they possess special abilities in protecting and repairing genetic material.
Mr. Rockman emphasized that these findings contribute to our understanding of natural evolution.
