Determination of phytoextraction potential of plant species for toxic elements in soils of abandoned sulphide-mining areas

This study has determined contamination levels in soils and plants from the Sao Domingos mining area, Portugal, by k0-INAA. Total concentrations of As, Sb, Cr, Hg, Cu, Zn and Fe in soils were very high, exceeding the maximum limits in Portuguese legislation. Concentrations of toxic elements like As, Sb and Zn were highest in roots of Erica andevalensis, Juncus acutus, Agrostis castellana and Nicotiana glauca. Additionally, As, Br, Cr, Fe, Sb and Zn in all organs of most plants were above toxicity levels. Those species that accumulated relatively high concentra- tions of toxic elements in roots (and tops) may be culti- vated for phytostabilisation of similar areas.