EFFECT OF IONIZING RADIATION ON FOREST TREES--ITS GENETIC AND CYTOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS. Progress Report, June 1, 1961-May 31, 1962

Technical Report · Wed Feb 28 04:00:00 EST 1962

OSTI ID:4807748

Mergen, F

Studies are being carried out to determine the effects of gamma radiation on the reproductive process of Pinus rigida and Quercus sp. Potted seedlings of Pinus rigida were placed in the Co/sup 60/ radiation field. Buds were collected to follow the effect of radiation on the cytological development of the meristematic cells. Seedlings that received 3020 r were able to resume growth although in a much deformed condition. Low levels of gamma radiation increased the number of aborted pollen grains and pollen tube growth was also significantly reduced. Fertilization was delayed at a level of 4r/20 hr day. Chronic irradiation as low as 3r/20 hr day resulted in small cones and significantly lower germination percentages in seed lots. A germination of 75% was obtained from seed that had accumulated a total of 3250r at the rate of 3.6r/ 20 hr day. Acorns of two representative species of the Erythrohalanus and Lepidohalanus groups were subjected to acute radiation and planted. Mature oak trees were exposed to low level (l5r/day and less) irradiation. The oak species survived in an area where associated pitch pine trees died in response to the irradiation levels. (M.C.G.)

• Research Organization: Yale Univ., New Haven. School of Forestry
• NSA Number: NSA-16-011463
• OSTI ID: 4807748
• Report Number(s): TID-15084
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
COBALT 60
CYTOLOGY
GAMMA RADIATION
LIFETIME
PLANT CELLS
PLANTS
POLLEN
RADIATION DOSES
RADIATION EFFECTS
REPRODUCTION
SEEDS