A study on distribution of natural radionuclide polonium-210 in a pond ecosystem.

ABSTRACT

This paper presents the results of an investigation on the distribution of 210Po in Mutharasanallur pond ecosystem. It has been demonstrated that 210Po is non-uniformly distributed within the ecosystem. The results of the study show a dissolved 210Po concentration in pond water of 1 4mBq l–1 . The sediment samplso recorded a 210Po activity of 59 9 Bq kg–1. The aquatic organisms showed differential accumulation of the radionuclide with enhanced bioaccumulation in soft tissues and muscle. The 210Po activity in the biota fell within the range of 1·2 —53 3 Bq kg-1 (wet wt). The bivalve mussel, Lamellidens marginalis was identified to accumulate higher concentration of 210Po in soft tissues, suggesting that these organisms could serve as a bio-monitor of 210Po radionuclide in a freshwater system. The concentration factors of 210Po for the biotic components ranged from ~ 102— ~104 . Analyses of the results indicate that prawn and fish represent an important source of supply of 210Po to humans via dietary intake. Results of210Po activity in the abiotic and biotic components of the pond ecosystem were higher when compared with those of Cauvery river system, the primary water source of the pond.