Investigations on a nickel accumulating plant: « Alyssum bertolonii » Desv. I. Nickel, calcium and magnesium content and distribution during growth

Abstract

Nickel, calcium and magnesium distribution has been followed during a whole year in different organs of Alyssum bertolonii Desv. on two ophiolitic outcrops in Tuscany, Monte Murlo (in the Upper Tiber Valley) and Impruneta (near Florence). The analytical results confirm that particularly leaves, fruits and seeds accumulate nickel, with higher values for the plants collected at Monte Murlo. Notwithstanding some differences in the proportion of the elements in the soils, A. bertolonii shows a tendency to reach similar calcium and magnesium contents in both localities. At Monte Murlo plants make a better growth, that is not related to a lower nickel content, but possibly to different ecological conditions which favour a longer life cycle, enhancing also nickel uptake.