The accumulation of metals in Polygonum aviculare L. in area of the Kraljevo city

Abstract

Elevated heavy metal concentrations cause environmental pollution. Our study examines the content of heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Mn, Fe and Cu) in the aboveground parts of Polygonum aviculare L. (Polygonaceae) sampled from five different locations in the city of Kraljevo and its surroundings. In order to evaluate the bioindicative ability of P. aviculare we have chosen localities which had different level of contamination. The analysis of heavy metals in the plant material was conducted by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. There is a correlation between the higher concentrations of Pb, Cu, Ni, Mn and Fe measured in plant tissues and environmental pollution caused by traffic. Other emission sources and soil composition are considered to be an important influence on the quantity of metals in plants. Based on the results, the species P. aviculare can be used as an important bioindicator of habitat pollution by heavy metals.