Heavy Metals in Some New Zealand Bryophytes

Abstract

Abstract. Cadmium, copper, lead, silver and zinc were determined in bryophytes from two mining areas in New Zealand. Background concentrations of all, except copper in Hypnum cupressiforme Hedw., were lower than in the lowest background values obtained for Swedish specimens of this species. Near the dusty treatment plant at Te Aroha, all bryophytes had high metal concentrations when compared with the substrate, which indicated foliar uptake of airborne contaminants when compared with uptake by bryophytes in mineralized areas due presumably to passive ion-exchange at the rhizoid-soil interface. Uptake of silver near a treatment plant at Maratoto and uptake of heavy metals by the aquatic bryophyte Fissidens rigidulus Hook. f. et. Wils were also investigated.