Heavy metal bioaccumulation by the important food plant, Olea europaea L., in an ancient metalliferous polluted area of Cyprus.
Aspects of the bioaccumulation of heavy metals are reviewed and possible evidence of homeostasis is highlighted. Examination and analysis of olive (Olea europaea L.) trees growing in close proximity to a copper dominated spoil tip dating from at least 2000 years BP, on the island of Cyprus, revealed both bioaccumulation and partitioning of copper, lead and zinc in various parts of the tree. A factor to quantify the degree of accumulation is illustrated and a possible seed protective mechanism suggested.
Wilson
B
B
Environmental Toxicology Health and Geochemistry Laboratory, Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research Centre, School of Biomedical and Natural Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Lane, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK. bob.wilson@ntu.ac.uk
Pyatt
F B
FB
D003300:Copper; D003535:Cyprus; D007220:Industrial Waste; D019216:Metals, Heavy / Q000032:analysis* / Q000378:metabolism; D031658:Olea / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000378:metabolism; D018514:Plant Structures / Q000737:chemistry; D010945:Plants, Edible / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism; D012989:Soil Pollutants / Q000032:analysis
D007220:Industrial Waste; D019216:Metals, Heavy; D012989:Soil Pollutants; D003300:Copper