Moss (Bryum radiculosum) as a bioindicator of trace metal deposition around an industrialised area in Sardinia (Italy)

The moss Bryum radiculosum, a species typical of dry and caostal environments, was used as a bioindicator for the estimation of atmospheric trace metal deposition around the industrial site of Portoscuso, qich includes a lead-zinc smelter, two power plants, and aluminium production factories. For Cd, Pb, Zn and V the results showed very similar pattern with extremely high values in the immediate surroundings of the industrial area. Copper and Cr showed somewhat different patterns, but still pointing to local pollution sources. The levels of metals at distance of about 213 km from the industrial site were still higher than in background samples. in order to evaluate the suitability of B. radiculosum for monitoring studies, trace metal concentration in moss were compared with bulk deposition measurements in the same area. correlations was significant only for Pb, Cd and Zn. For Cr, Cu, and V the results showed high variability, mainly to be ascribed to soil factors.