Abstract

Overview

The study aims to scrutinize the direct and transgenerational impact of radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) on Daphnia magna, a model organism for crustaceans.

Materials and Methods

• Subjects: Chronically exposed D. magna at 900 GHz EMF with the energy flux density (EFD) of about 1 mW/cm2.
• Period of Exposure: Juvenile and pubertal periods of their development.
• Parameters Observed: Cytotoxicity, survival, fertility, and teratogenic effects on directly exposed daphnids and their progeny across three generations.

Findings

RF-EMF exposure during the juvenile period significantly diminishes fertility and affects the physical size of irradiated daphnids and their first-generation offspring. Furthermore, cytotoxic effects were evident on the cells of irradiated specimens. These observations highlight a negative impact of radiation on the population's protective strategies.

Conclusion

The study enhances understanding of the substantial in vivo effects of RF-EMF, noting a consequential restoration of reproductive processes by the second generation, thus suggesting potential adaptive mechanisms amidst ongoing radiation exposure.