Radioecological research on the marine environment facing the italian base in antarctica (1989–91)

The results of the analysis of both natural (Th-232, U-238 and K-40) and artificial (Cs-137) radioactivity contained in samples collected during the 1989–90 and 1990–91 PNRA Scientific Campaigns in the Terra Nova Bay (Ross Sea) marine ecosystem, are presented in this paper. The data refers to samples of sea water, pack water, sediments and organisms belonging to demersal ichthyofauna (Pagothenia bemacchii, Chionodracohamatus) and soft bottom macrofauna (Adamussium colbecki) collected in different coastal and off shore stations of the area investigated. Some sea water samples collected on the way to sub Antarctic areas were also considered. The radiocontamination detected in sediments was correlated to the quantities of organic matter, organic carbon and nitrogen contained in the samples. Additionally, Cs-137 concentration factors were calculated for the different biological specimens and their anatomical components. Data values, with special consideration for anthropogenic Cs-137, are compared to results obtained from similar matrixes collected in the Northern Hemisphere in temperate waters before and after the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear plant. © 1994 Gordon and Breach Science Publishers S. A.