Contaminación Urbana por Material Particulado y su Efecto sobre las Características Morfo-Anatómicas de Cuatro Especies Arbóreas de Santiago de Chile

Abstract

The objective of this work is to analyze the effect of pollution on four urban tree species exposed to different concentrations of particulate matter. Particulate matter is the atmospheric pollutant more frequently exceeding the standards in Chilean cities, affecting human and environmental health. In this context, morpho-anatomical characteristics of the leaves of the species Quillaja saponaria, Schinus molle, Olea europaea and Melia azedarach present in three study areas with different particulate matter concentrations were studied. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in the abaxial stomatal density of Quillaja saponaria and Melia azedarach and in the abaxial stomatal width of Quillaja saponaria among the studied sites. The results could show a negative effect of the pollutant on the biological functioning of the trees. This should represent an alert for authorities about the criteria used for the selection of the species employed in the vegetation of the city of Santiago. (English) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]