ACCUMULATION OF137Cs BYAEDES AEGYPTILARVAE AND THE EFFECT OF POTASSIUM CONCENTRATION

Abstract
Radiocesium accumulation byAedes aegyptilarvae was greater at 25 °C, than at 20 °C. The activity density (c.p.m./mg dry wt.) of the adults was the same for both sexes, as was the nuclide’s elimination rate. The amount of137Cs accumulated by the larval instars was inversely proportional to the concentration of potassium in the rearing medium, the suppression of137Cs uptake being greater at 25 °C than at 20 °C. The possibility that larvae may accumulate137Cs via the anal papillae and the gut, is briefly discussed.