Amphibian Nitrate Stress as an Additional Terrestrial Threat from Astrophysical Ionizing Radiation Events?

Thomas, BC; Honeyman, MD

HERO ID

620957

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

2008

Language

English

PMID

18666837

HERO ID 620957
In Press No
Year 2008
Title Amphibian Nitrate Stress as an Additional Terrestrial Threat from Astrophysical Ionizing Radiation Events?
Authors Thomas, BC; Honeyman, MD
Journal Astrobiology
Volume 8
Issue 4
Page Numbers 731-733
Abstract Various astrophysical events have been suggested as sources of ionizing radiation that, by way of destruction of the ozone layer and the subsequent increase in UVB and deposition of nitrate, could pose a threat to life on Earth. We have investigated whether the nitrate deposition that follows an ionizing event is sufficient to cause an additional stress beyond that of the heightened UVB previously considered. Our results show that, subsequent to the most intense ionization event likely to have occurred in the last billion years, the increase in nitrate concentration in bodies of water would not be sufficient to cause serious additional stress on amphibian populations and may actually provide some benefit by acting as fertilizer.
Doi 10.1089/ast.2007.0262
Pmid 18666837
Wosid WOS:000260369000003
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Comments Source: Web of Science WOS:000260369000003
Is Public Yes
Language Text English
Keyword Radiation; Ozone; UV radiation
Is Qa No