Lichens and mosses as biomonitors of trace elements in areas with thermal springs and fumarole activity (Mt. Amiata, central Italy)

Chemosphere. 2000 Nov;41(9):1333-6. doi: 10.1016/s0045-6535(00)00026-6.

Abstract

The contribution of thermal springs and fumaroles to environmental levels of Al, As, B, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mo, Pb, S, Sb and Zn was evaluated by means of lichens (Parmelia sulcata) and mosses (Hypnum cupressiforme) used as bioaccumulators. Compared to the data reported for unpolluted areas, accumulation of Hg, S and Al was found, with values of Hg and S in the same range as in the vicinity of geothermal power plants. Furthermore, fumaroles turned out to be a significant source of atmospheric arsenic.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants / analysis
  • Aluminum / analysis
  • Arsenic / analysis
  • Bryopsida / chemistry*
  • Environmental Monitoring*
  • Hot Temperature
  • Italy
  • Lichens / chemistry*
  • Mercury / analysis
  • Power Plants*
  • Sulfur / analysis
  • Trace Elements / analysis*
  • Volcanic Eruptions*

Substances

  • Air Pollutants
  • Trace Elements
  • Sulfur
  • Aluminum
  • Mercury
  • Arsenic