Abstract
This work aimed at comparing the ability of two plants in accumulating atmospheric trace elements. Samples of Parmelia sulcata (lichen) were transplanted and covered with a net into an exposed location on the trunk of Jacaranda mimosifolia (bark) at different sites impacted by urban - industrial emissions for a period of 3 months. Lichen samples were harvested along with bark samples for trace element analysis with the use of ICP-MS. The results indicated that concentrations in bark and lichen transplants correlated significantly with atmospheric deposition for all the elements. There was a consistent pattern of accumulation in both biomonitors with the bark outperforming the lichen. Significant differences were observed in the accumulation efficiency for both biomonitors at different sites (p < 0.01). Both plants studied showed Pb to be related to vehicular emission and Cr to the mining industries within the study site. Both plants could serve as alternative biomonitors, however and wherever possible both plants should not be used interchangeably in areas with trace elements deposits.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 96-100 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Journal | Trace Elements and Electrolytes |
| Volume | 28 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2011 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Atmospheric deposition
- Parmelia sulcata
- Trace elements
- Transplants