Accumulation and Translocation of Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) from Industrial Soil by a Woody Drought Tolerant Tree, Eucalyptus citridora

Abstract

Field samples of Eucalyptus citridora, a drought tolerant tree, growing in an industrial area with high anthropogenic activities (Challawa) were collected and were separated into leaves, stems and roots. The aim was to assess the levels of accumulation and translocation of six Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) (Zn, Cu, Cd, Cr, Pb and Ni) from the soil media. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) was used to assess the concentrations. The bioaccumulation/ transfer of metals from roots to shoots and from soil to roots were evaluated in terms of translocation (TF) and bioconcentration factors (BCF). TF values of 1.58, 1.98 , 1.07, and 1.26 for Zn , Cu , Cr and Ni respectively indicated that Eucalyptus citridora was efficient in translocation of PTEs from roots to shoots and follows the trend Cu>Zn > Ni > Cr. This is an indication that the plant is therefore suitable for phytoextraction of Zn, Cu, Cr and Ni. BCF values of Zn (0.94), Cu (0.85), Cd (1.37), Cr (1.25), Pb (2.3) and Ni(1.66)were recorded for the elements under investigation. This show that Eucalyptus citridora may be a suitable candidate for phytostabilization of Cd and Pb in the contaminated soils as it retains high concentration of these metals in its roots as seen in the study area.