Concentrations of cadmium, lead and mercury in different soils in two Swedish forest catchments

Accumulation of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg), as affected by organic matter content, pH of different soil compartments and the physicochemical properties of each metal, was studied in different soil types within two forested catchments of the Norway spruce (Picea abies-Vaccinium myrtillus) type. Independent of soil type, the highest metal concentrations were found in the organic layers of the soil, usually in the surface soil. The concentrations in the upper part of the mineral subsoil were about one-fifth to one-tenth, or less, of those in the organic surface soil. Concentration maxima in the B-horizon were more pronounced for Cd and Hg than for Pb. When comparing soil types, the highest concentrations of Cd were found in the less acidified fens in the discharge area, while for Hg and Pb the highest concentrations usually occurred in the mor layer of the well-drained Podzols. For all metals, the soil types wit h the largest accumulation had concentrations up to 2-3-fold higher in the organic layers than those with the smallest accumulation.