Major differences in the frequencies of radiation-induced malformations and eye color mutants in mature oocytes of the wasp Dahlbominus

A comparison of the effects of γ radiation over the range of exposures from 15.5 to 125 R on the production of malformations and eye color mutations in mature oocytes of Dahlbominus revealed several major differences in the two sorts of response. At all exposures, total malformations of all sorts appeared in larger numbers than eye color mutants, and the doubling dose for malformations was at least six times higher. It was concluded that the majority of the induced malformations in Dahlbominus may arise by a process other than point mutation, e.g., through nondisjunction, and that the genetic hazard from low doses for this type of injury will not be severe. (U.S.)