| Abstract |
Studies concerning the impact of UV-B radiation upon terrestrial organisms have been conducted in the laboratory, in growth chambers and greenhouses, and a few under fairly natural 'field' conditions. Detrimental effects were noted for growth, morphology, and function in a large variety of plants species, including many important argonomic crops such as soybeans. Of note is the fact that elimination of the UV-B waveband from natural solar radiation usually benefits the organism or system under investigation. This fact indicates that even current levels of UV-B radiation have a negative impact upon some life processes. Whether enhanced levels would have a relatively greater impact requires further field validation of laboratory studies. In aquatic systems there is good evidence that current levels of solar ultraviolet radiation depress near-surface primary productivity. Marine animals may tolerate current levels of solar UV-B radiation by means of protective screens, avoidance behavior, and repair processes which reverse much of the potential damage inflicted by the radiation. |
