Determination of atmospheric heavy metal pollution in Canakkale and Balikesir provinces using lichen (Cladonia rangiformis) as a bioindicator

A regional study was conducted to assess the current level of atmospheric heavy metal pollution (Pb, Zn, Cr, Cu, Cd) in the Canakkale and Balikesir provinces of Turkey, and also to establish a baseline for future studies of atmospheric heavy metal pollution. The lichen Cladonia rangiformis was used for determining the distribution of heavy metals in the atmosphere. The highest concentration of all these elements was observed in the vicinity of Balikesir province where there is an abandoned lead-zinc main. On the other hand, apart from the mining area, the concentration of heavy metals was similar to the data reported for unpolluted areas. Maximum values of Pb, Zn, Cr, Cu, and Cd were 33.8, 47.6, 13.0, 5.29, and 0.69 mg/kg in dry weight, respectively. Spatial distribution of these elements, apart from Cr, was similar. Correlation coefficients between Zn-Pb, Cr-Zn, Cu-Pb, Cu-Zn, Cd-Zn, and Cd-Cr were high and positive, and indicated that they come from the same sources.