Publication Abstract

The effect of chronic radiation on the humoral response of rainbow trout, Oncorhychus mykiss, Walbaum

J.F. Knowles

Two separate experiments have examined the effect of exposing rainbow trout to chronic gamma -radiation, commencing immediately after fertilization. In experiment 1 the period of exposure extended for 20 days with groups receiving mean dose rates of 1.87, 3.73 and 9.03 mGy/h, and mean total accumulated doses of 0.83, 1.66 and 4.01 Gy respectively. In experiment 2 the exposure period was extended to 246 days from fertilization. Mean dose-rates to the three groups used were the same as in the first experiment until hatching at 21 days and then lower with rates of 0.99, 1.9 and 4.66 mGy/h to the free-swimming fish. The antibody response was significantly lower in trout receiving the highest dose-rate when compared with those of unirradiated controls or the lowest dose-rate group. The significance of these results is discussed in relation to radiation levels in areas of radioactive waste disposal, and results from a similar study published previously.

Reference:

J.F. Knowles, 1992. The effect of chronic radiation on the humoral response of rainbow trout, Oncorhychus mykiss, Walbaum. Internation Journal of Radiation Biology, 62(2): 239-248.