Estimation of radiation exposure levels in terrestrial biota at Lake Oubeïra using the ERICA Tier 2 assessment tool

This study evaluates radionuclide contamination and radiological exposure in terrestrial biota within the Lake Oubeïra ecosystem, El Kala National Park, Algeria. The soil core sample was analysed using gamma spectrometry to quantify both natural and anthropogenic radionuclides. Using the ERICA Tier 2 assessment tool, total dose rates (TDRs) and risk quotients (RQs) were estimated for representative taxa including lichens, bryophytes, invertebrates, amphibians, and mammals. Results show that lichens and bryophytes experienced the highest exposures (TDR = 21.4 μGy h−1; RQ = 2.1), exceeding international ecological screening levels. Other taxa exhibited lower but non-negligible dose rates, indicating potential long-term ecological effects. The findings demonstrate that non-vascular plants serve as effective bioindicators of radiological stress and highlight the need for continued monitoring to preserve the ecological integrity of Lake Oubeïra.