Heavy metals in the leaves of tree species paulownia elongata s.y.hu in the region of the city of belgrade

Abstract

Based on the analysis of the heavy metal content (Zn, Fe, Pb, Cu, Ni, Cr, Mn, Cd, As, Hg) in leaves of the trees growing in the urban part of the city of Belgrade, wider city area and rural area it may be noted that the content of Fe, Pb, Ni, Cr and Cd increases going from rural to urban area. The obtained results may be related to the increased air pollution in urban and suburban areas where some of these heavy metals appear as a direct consequence of fuel combustion. The level of tolerance of the species Paulownia elongata S.Y.HU towards air pollution represents the basis for its development and survival in urban conditions as well as setting up of tree alleys and forming wind protection zones along main traffic lines. © 2009 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.