The uptake of metallic elements by plants from polluted soils†

Abstract

The uptake of basic and non‐essential metallic constituents by plants was measured by AAS and flame photometry. Data were studied by a computered multiple regression technique. Fifty‐eight samples of five different species (Poa, Trifolium repens, Plantago lanceolata, Diplotaxis and Pteridium aquilinum) of wild plants were collected at seven points of Biscay. Statistically significant equations, relating most of metal uptake (i) to previously studied soil content and availability, (ii) to general soil characteristics and (iii) to position parameters could be obtained for all plants or individual species. Results are used as a basis to discuss uptake mechanisms of essential and heavy metals by plants collected from polluted areas.