Heavy Metal Accumulation in Leaf Samples of "Elaeagnus angustifolia L.": Example of Erzurum

Abstract

In this study, densities of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Ni, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn) were determined by using leaf samples of the plant of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. in the Erzurum urban areas where the plant was well spread. Numerical maps for spatial distribution of these elements in the urban fabric were produced and evaluated. Based on the information obtained, some suggestions were developed by evaluating whet her the plant Elaoagnus a n gust ifolia can be used as biomonitor on the basis of elements. In this context. samples were collected at 4 stations representing the city texture which were the main transportation routes. central refuge and areas close to roads (0-20 m) with especially high traffic density throughout the city. ANOVA were applied to see statistical differences among obtained data variables. As a result. the spatial distribution of heavy metal elements in urban Texture of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. was found to have the most intense distribution in the city center for Fe (100-275 ppm) and Zn (37.5-82.5 ppm), in Yenisehir-Yildizkent for Pb (0.16-12.66 ppm), Ni (4.29-13.21 ppm) and Mn (244.5-278.7 ppm), in Dadaskent for Cd (0.05-0.62 ppm) and Cu (9.9-47.6 ppm). It was determined that Elaeagnus angustifolia L. plant can be a good biomonitor for the presence of Ni, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn elements.