The Impact of UV Radiation on Paramecium Populations from Alpine Lakes

Paramecium populations from a clear and a glacier-fed turbid alpine lake were exposed to solar simulated ultraviolet (UVR) and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) at 8 and 15 °C. The ciliates were tested for DNA damage (comet assay), behavioral changes, and mortality after UVR + PAR exposure. High DNA damage levels (~58% tail DNA) and abnormal swimming behavior were observed, although no significant changes in cell numbers were found irrespective of the lake origin (clear, turbid), and temperatures. We conclude that environmental stressors such as UVR and their effects may influence the adaptation of ciliates living in alpine lakes.