The potential of different plant species for heavy metals accumulation and distribution

Different plant organs (leaves, flowers, sterns or roots) from naturally occurring wild plants and trees, and cultivated plants (vegetables and fruits) were evaluated as possible bioindicators of heavy-metal pollution in the Republic of Serbia. Concentrations of Pb, Zn and Cd were determined in plant parts collected from areas with different degrees of metal pollution (Kosovska Mitrovica - industrial area and Leposavic - control area). Accumulation and distribution of heavy metals in the plant depend on the plant species, the levels of the metals in the soil and air, the element species and bioavailiability, pH, cation exchange capacity, climacteric condition, vegetation period and multiple other factors. The highest amounts of heavy metals were found in the root of the sensitive Plontago major (Pb 660, Zn 2300 and Cd 33.25 mu g g(-1) d.w.) and less in the resistant Rumex acetosella. In over ground organs the highest amounts of heavy metals were found in the leaves (283 mu g g(-1) d.w. Pb) and then in the fruits (3,5-136 mu g g(-1)) and vegetables (1.5-13 mu g g(-1)). In this study, the bark of Robimia pseudoacacia was a better bioindicator of heavy-metal pollution than other plant parts. Summarizing the results, it can be concluded that R. pseudoacacia, P major and R. acetosella were better metal accumulators and fruits and vegetables were metal avoiders.