Nuclear Radiation

Genetic mutations have been found in three generations of butterflies from areas near Japan's crippled Fukushima nuclear plant.

Scientists found 34 per cent of 3rd generation butterflies had abnormalities, including smaller wings and damaged eyes.

The findings will raise fears over the long-term effects of the leaks on other species and people who were exposed in the days and weeks after the accident, as radiation spread over a large area and forced thousands to evacuate.