Environmental factors affecting trace metal accumulation in two moss species

Abstract

Transplants of two morphologically contrasted moss species (Hylocomium splendens and Pleurozium schreberi) were exposed at urban site affected by heavy industry. Irrigated moss bag method was implemented and moss samples were placed in two heights above ground (1 m, 2 m). The samples were subsequently analysed for As, Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Fe, Ni, Pb, V and Zn content using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Overall, only few significant correlations between metals accumulation were found when assessed separately, mainly mimicking their prevalence in the environment (e.g. strong correlation between Al and Fe). Simultaneously collected – during two exposition periods – meteorological data were then analysed for possible effects on bioaccumulation patterns by the means of multivariate analysis (PCA, RDA). Models revealing significant dependencies, both on the factors of design (species and treatment) and on the environmental factors, were obtained. Species was by far the most important factor – Hylocomium splendens was found to be a better accumulator, placement of the transplants in 2 m was proved to enhance the metal accumulation in comparison to the placement in 1 m above ground. Two of the environmental factors – irradiance and temperature – had an observable positive effect on the metal bioaccumulation in case of Cd, Cu, Fe and V, and negative effect on the bioaccumulation of Hg.