Like the wolves of Chernobyl, small nematodes (Oscheius tipulae) in the area appear to be resistant to developing radiation-induced genetic mutations. In fact, scientists have been unable to detect any changes in their genome, in comparison to individuals living in other parts of the world, despite their highly radioactive environment.
Source:
SC Tintori, D Cağlar, P Ortiz, MV Rockman. Environmental radiation exposure at Chornobyl has not systematically affected the genomes or chemical mutagen tolerance phenotypes of local worms. PNAS. 121(11): e2314793121, 2024.
Categories: Environment, Extreme Animals, Nature's Solutions
Tags: cancer, Chernobyl, genetic, nematode
Life Lines by Dr. Dolittle 