ISSN:
1432-0495
Keywords:
Environmental geochemistry
;
Trace metals
;
Particulate matter
;
Biogeochemistry
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
Notes:
Pinus pinea L., collected in and around the city of Palermo were analysed for major and trace elements by INAA and ICP-MS. The chemical composition of pine needles suggests that the presence of Pb, Sb and Br in excess with respect to soil composition is due to anthropogenic emissions. The anomalously high values of these elements observed in the urban area decrease outside town. Lead isotope data confirm the anthropogenic origin of lead. The origin of Zn and Cu excess remains uncertain at the moment, although wholly-crustal origin appears doubtful. Morphological alterations attributable to phenol accumulation, such as modifications in the length of mesophyll cells and the appearance of lacunae in the distal portions, were observed in needles. The accumulation of phenols, linked to the presence of lead, gives rise to a specific pattern of metabolites providing mechanisms of detoxification and protection, so that the accumulation degree may be proposed as a marker of environmental pollution.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002549900071
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