Effects of chronic low-dose radiation on the common reed within the Chernobyl accident Exclusion Zone

Abstract

The results of the analyses of plant production and parasitic resistance of common reed (Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex. Steud) from water bodies within the Chernobyl accident exclusion zone are represented. The heavy damage of common reed by the ergot (Claviceps purpurea (Fr.) Tul.) (up to 50%) from water bodies of the left-bank flood lands of the Pripyat River, which is the most contaminated region of the Chernobyl NPP exclusion zone, has been investigated. Deviations in morphological indexes of reproductive organs of common reed from water bodies of right- and left-bank flood lands of the Pripyat River within 10-km exclusion zone are registered. There are: decrease of panicle width, length and flowers number at inflorescence; differences in seed shape and color. The direct correlation between the absorbed dose rate for higher aquatic plants and plant productivity indexes as well as damage events of common reed by the ergot is proved. The parasitic resistance of common reed from water bodies within Chernobyl accident exclusion zone are decreased according to the increase of absorbed dose rate as well.