Dogs in Chernobyl are now genetically DISTINCT thanks to years of exposure to radiation, study finds [Video]

Dogs in Chernobyl are now genetically DISTINCT from other pups thanks to years of exposure to ionising radiation, study finds

09:10 EST 06 Mar 2023 , updated 09:10 EST 06 Mar 2023

Dogs that roam the derelict Chernobyl nuclear power plant have become genetically distinct from other pups, as a result of radiation exposure.

Scientists in the US have been analysing the blood of the 302 pooches that still live in the region, to probe the effects of the devastating explosion in 1986.

The dogs are thought to be the descendants of pets left behind by residents when they evacuated the region in Ukraine.

Researchers from the University of South Carolina and National Human Genome Research Institute found that the dogs could be split into three genetically similar groups.

These groups each live in either the nuclear power plant itself, Chernobyl City or Slavutych – a city about 28 miles (45 km) away that was purpose-built for evacuees.