Cs-137 in freshwater fish in Finland after the Chernobyl accident

Cs-137 in freshwater fish in Finland after the Chernobyl accident

AbstractMore than 9200 freshwater fish samples from 590 different lakes in Finland have been analysed for 137Cs after the Chernobyl accident by STUK (Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, Finland). For each sampling site the following parameters have been recorded: the amount of 137Cs deposition in the area; size of the lake, fish type. The most common fish species sampled include perch, pike and vendace. In 1987 137Cs concentrations in freshwater fish were highest ranging from 20 to 33 000 Bq kg-1 fresh weight. Currently (2007-2010) 137Cs concentrations in fish varies from 2 to 4000 Bq kg-1. Prior to the Chernobyl accident 137Cs concentration in fish varied from 2 to 64 Bq kg-1 fresh weight.
STAR partnerSTUK
Type of dataResearch and Monitoring
Sample number>1000
QualityData have been collected as a part of STUK’s environmental monitoring program since 1986. Since 1999, radioactivity determinations have been carried out using an accredited method with regular quality control through intercomparisons, calibrations and blank samples. Prior to 1999, in-house quality evaluation took place with similar quality assessments. Locations are currently recorded by name of the lake and name of the city where the lake is situated for each fish sample. of the lake.
Spatially referencedSpatial reference can also be provided as latitude/longitude (KKJ coordinates)
Ecosystem type

Freshwater

Sample typeFish (inc. perch, pike and vendace)
Date1986 - ongoing
LanguagesFinnish
StatusOn-going programme
Obtain dataData are provided on request without restriction. Contact: star.stuk@stuk.fi
Key reference sources 
Data ownershipSTUK
Database formatExcel
Figure information 
Keywords

finland , chernobyl , freshwater , infoex

 

Prepared by STAR NoE