Worms collected from Chernobyl examined! What were the results?

Scientists have made a significant discovery regarding worms found in the region following the disaster that occurred at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in 1986. Research has revealed that worms collected from near the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant are resistant to radiation. Scientists, who have been conducting studies within a 32-kilometer radius of the plant for over 40 years, have shared these findings with the public.

New York University scientist Sophia Tintori stated that the Chernobyl disaster was a horrific tragedy, but the effects of this disaster on the local population are still not fully understood. Noting that some species living in the region are resistant to radiation, Tintori emphasized that some are extremely resilient.

Scientists noted that worms have a shorter lifespan, which allows them to study different generations of worms in more detail. Matthew Rockman, a scientist involved in the research, stated that the worms live fast and evolve quickly.

The New York University team analyzed the genetics and evolution of 15 worms of the nematode species and compared them with five other nematode species from various parts of the world. The examinations revealed that the worms did not show signs of DNA damage caused by high radiation levels.

The researchers stated that the worms from Chernobyl are not more tolerant to radiation and that the radioactive environment did not force them to evolve. Tintori emphasized that this finding does not mean the disaster zone is safe, but rather that nematodes are resilient animals capable of withstanding extreme conditions.

News Source: 12punto