Concentration of chemical elements in willow gentian (Gentiana asclepiadea), Javorová valley, Tatra mountains
Abstract
Plants, as a basic component of the trophic pyramid, are a source of nutrients and health promoting substances, but also of dangerous or toxic substances such as heavy metals. Chemical elements were studied in the plant Gentiana asclepiadea in the Javorová Valley, in the High Tatras. Plant samples were regularly collected at sampling sites varying in altitude and habitat. Concentrations of biogenic and potentially toxic elements in flowers, leaves, stems, roots, and soil were detected by an INNOV-X spectrometer. In G. asclepiadea, more pronounced concentrations of Rb, Hg, and Pb were measured in leaves and flowers. A tendency for the elements to accumulate in plant tissues from the beginning to the end of the growing season was observed. Signifcant contamination of the surface soil and dry plants was observed in the spring months. This phenomenon is observed in the behaviour of Rb, Sr, Ba, and Hg, as well as biogenic or trace elements such as Zn, Cu, Cr, Ca, Cl and S. In the mountain vegetation stage, there is a tendency to more strongly sequester Rb, Ba, Pb and Hg. This research illustrates the distribution and contamination of chemical elements in the high mountain environment.
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