Robinia pseudo-acacia L. as a possible biomonitor of heavy metal pollution in Kayseri

Abstract

The leaves of Robinia pseudo-acacia L. (Fabaceae) were tested as a possible biomonitor of heavy metal pollution in Kayseri. Concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn were determined in unwashed and washed leaves and soils collected from a wide range of sites with different degrees of metal pollution. Differences between the unwashed and washed samples varied according to the metal pollutant levels. Significant correlations were obtained between the heavy metal concentrations in surface soil and washed leaf samples. R. pseudo-acacia was found to be a useful biomonitor of the heavy metals investigated.