X-ray induced behavioral reactions and detection mechanisms in the shrimp

Physiol Behav. 1975 Jul;15(1):1-5. doi: 10.1016/0031-9384(75)90269-3.

Abstract

Red Ghost Shrimp, Callianassa californiensis, were shown from behavioral and electrophysiological studies to respond to ionizing radiation. When exposed to X-rays at 52 R/sec, the majority of intact animals could detect and avoid further irradiation by escaping into a shielded section of the test chamber. Animals continued to display escape responses after removal of eyestalks and antennae. Significant avoidance activity also occurred with partial-body exposure and indicated the existence of a radiation-sensitive receptor on the abdomen. Electroretinograms elecited by beta- and X-radiation sources corresponded closely with the waveforms produced by visible light stimulation. Electroantennograms were recorded from isolated antennules following stimulation with glutamic acid, beta-, and X-radiation. Biphasic on-off phases were recorded with an intermediate phase present during the longer duration exposures. Similarly, bioelectrical potentials were recorded from swimmeret preparations with exposure to beta- and X-radiation. The electrophysiological evidence indicates that the eye, antennules, and possibly chemoreceptors on the abdominal segments serve as routes for detection of ionizing radiations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen / physiology
  • Animals
  • Behavior, Animal / radiation effects*
  • Chemoreceptor Cells / drug effects
  • Chemoreceptor Cells / radiation effects*
  • Dark Adaptation
  • Decapoda / radiation effects*
  • Electrophysiology
  • Escape Reaction / radiation effects
  • Eye / radiation effects
  • Glutamates / pharmacology
  • Light
  • Motor Activity / radiation effects
  • Ocular Physiological Phenomena
  • Photoreceptor Cells / radiation effects*
  • Radiation Effects*
  • Reaction Time / radiation effects
  • X-Rays

Substances

  • Glutamates