DNA of Chernobyl animals studied

[n2doc]

PRIPYAT, Ukraine, Aug. 20 (UPI) -- Scientists studying wildlife in the Chernobyl region say DNA may be the key to which species are most likely to be damaged by radioactive contamination.

Two scientists, one American and one French, have been in Chernobyl for more than 10 years studying the populations of insects, birds and mammals in "zone of alienation" surrounding the abandoned nuclear power station in Ukraine, the BBC reported Friday.

Professors Tim Mousseau from the University of South Carolina and Anders Moller from the National Center for Scientific Research in Paris have examined DNA patterns of the species they've studied at Chernobyl.

With every generation, the pattern of a species' DNA changes slightly, as a result of the natural balance between mutations and the individual's ability to repair damaged DNA.

more

http://www.upi.com/Science_News/2010/08/20/DNA-of-Chernobyl-animals-studied/UPI-36701282318781/

[ensho]

1. these studies are fascinating & its so important that people understand

what happens re: things nuclear

[TheMadMonk]

2. Indeed they should understand. Instead the believe.

They believe a whole lot of "not so" with every fibre of their being, and nothing as mundane a fact shall be allowed to influence that.

Just like good republicans or fundies in that respect really.