Effects of chronic external gamma irradiation on growth and reproductive success of Daphnia magna

Aquatic invertebrates (water flea Daphnia magna) were exposed to low dose rates of external gamma radiation (from 0.4 to 31 mGy h−1) over a 23-day period (i.e. 5 broods). Gamma radiation caused changes in neither survival nor somatic growth. Mass-specific respiration rate was significantly lower at 31 mGy h−1 than in the control. Reproduction was affected through early release and reduced size of broods after 15 days of exposure at 31 mGy h−1 (broods 3–5), resulting in a 21% fecundity decrease at 31 mGy h−1 compared to the control. A decreased resistance of neonates to starvation was observed in relation to dose rates. Possible mechanisms of gamma radiotoxicity for daphnid reproduction and implications for radioprotection are discussed.