Andreas Klumpp - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Andreas Klumpp

Research paper thumbnail of Accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and trace elements in the bioindicator plants Tillandsia capillaris and Lolium multiflorum exposed at PM 10 monitoring stations in Stuttgart (Germany)

Chemosphere, 2010

The accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Tillandsia capillaris Ruiz and Pav... more The accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Tillandsia capillaris Ruiz and Pav. form capillaris and trace elements in T. capillaris and Lolium multiflorum (LAM) cv. Lema was assessed and evaluated in the city of Stuttgart, Germany. Several sites (urban, suburban and rural) categorized according to type and intensity of vehicular traffic were investigated. At these sites, plants of T.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Pb and Zn contents in agricultural soils and soybean crops near to a former battery recycling plant in Córdoba, Argentina

Journal of Geochemical Exploration

A field study was carried out in the vicinity of a former battery recycling plant, with heavy met... more A field study was carried out in the vicinity of a former battery recycling plant, with heavy metal content (Pb and Zn), the toxicological risk of seed consumption of soybean crops [Glycine Max (L.) Merr.] grown on these soils and their relation with seed quality being evaluated. The concentrations of Pb and Zn in soybeans (roots, stems, pods and seeds) and in top soils were investigated and their potential risk to the health of consumers was estimated. Furthermore, quality related seed parameters (standard germination test, tetrazolium test, biomass and weight of 1000 seeds) were obtained. The results show that the concentrations of Pb in soybeans at all sites (controls and close to the smelter) were above the maximum permitted levels. Seed quality decreased as the lead concentration increased in seeds from sites near to the former battery recycling plant. Moreover, the greatest accumulation of Zn in seeds was found at sites with high concentrations of Pb in soils. Taking into acco...

Research paper thumbnail of Tradescantia micronucleus test indicates genotoxic potential of traffic emissions in European cities

The Tradescantia micronucleus test can be used to assess genotoxic potential at urban sites.

Research paper thumbnail of Foliar Nutrient Contents in Tree Species of the Atlantic Rain Forest as Influenced by Air Pollution from the Industrial Complex of Cubatão, SE-Brazil

Air pollutant emissions from the industrial complex of Cubatão, SE-Brazil, have caused a severe d... more Air pollutant emissions from the industrial complex of Cubatão, SE-Brazil, have caused a severe decline of the Atlantic Forest in that region. In order to test the influence of air pollution on the mineral nutrition of trees, leaves of the native species Tibouchina pulchra Cogn. (Melastomataceae), Miconia pyrifolia Naud. (Melastomataceae) and Cecropia glazioui Snethl. (Cecropiaceae) were sampled during winter and summer seasons at four sites with different pollution characteristics. Additionally, saplings of T. pulchra were cultivated in uniform soil and exposed to ambient air at the same experimental sites for periods of 16 weeks. In both kinds of leaf samples, the concentrations of macro-nutrients were determined and nutrient ratios calculated. In leaves of mature T. pulchra and C. glazioui growing at polluted sites N, P and S levels were significantly higher than in trees from the reference area. With respect to K contents, C. glazioui showed an increase, T. pulchra a decrease when compared to reference trees. Mg and Ca concentrations generally did not exhibit great variations. As a consequence of the changes in mineral contents nutrient ratios (N/K, N/Ca, S/K, S/Ca) shifted to higher values. The results of the exposure experiments together with data on pollutant concentrations in ambient air and rain water demonstrated that atmospheric deposition to the plants and pollution effects on the soil chemistry are the main reasons for the observed alterations in mineral nutrition of trees.

Research paper thumbnail of Biomonitoring of airborne fluoride and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in industrial areas of Córdoba, Argentina, using standardized grass cultures of Lolium multiflorum

Atmospheric Pollution Research, 2015

A biomonitoring study was performed employing standardized grass cultures. Plants of Lolium multi... more A biomonitoring study was performed employing standardized grass cultures. Plants of Lolium multiflorum were exposed at 4 industrial sites over three-month periods in two seasons (dry and rainy) and the biomass produced was used for subsequent measurements of fluoride, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (phenanthrene, anthracene, pyrene, benzo[a]anthracene, chrysene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, benzo[k]fluoranthene, benzo[a]pyrene, dibenzo[a,h]anthracene and benzo[g,h,i]perylene), total chlorophyll, malondialdehyde, water, and sulfur content. The total content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) revealed seasonal variations, with the highest values corresponding to the dry season, although this species showed a high retention capacity of PAHs during rainy season. In addition, sampling sites with high vehicular traffic and metal-mechanical industries were associated with the highest content of PAHs. Furthermore, physiological degradation associated with anthropogenic activities in the sampling sites was observed. Fluoride content in the biomonitor was associated with the production and use of cement, which was higher in the dry season.

Research paper thumbnail of Ozone Biomonitoring with Bel-W3 Tobacco Plants in the City of Valencia (Spain)

Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, 2007

A biomonitoring study using the ozonesensitive bioindicator plant Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bel-W3 wa... more A biomonitoring study using the ozonesensitive bioindicator plant Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bel-W3 was conducted in the city of Valencia (eastern Spain) and surrounding areas in 2002. Plants were exposed to ambient air at seven sites, including four traffic-exposed urban sites, a large urban garden and a suburban and a rural station, for six consecutive 2-week periods using highly standardised methods. Foliar injury was registered at all stations in at least one of the exposure periods. The urban stations submitted to intense traffic showed lower ozone injury than the less traffic-exposed stations. Strong changes in the intensity of ozone injury were observed for the different exposure periods. Leaf injury was significantly related to both mean ozone values (24 and 12 h means) and cumulative exposure indices (AOT20, AOT40). However, correlation strength was moderate (r s =0.39 to 0.58), suggesting that the plant response to ozone was modified by environmental factors. The use of sensitive bioindicators like tobacco Bel-W3 in cities provides complementary information to that of continuously operating air quality monitors, as the impact of ambient ozone levels is directly measured.

Research paper thumbnail of Fluoride impact on native tree species of the atlantic forest near Cubat�o, Brazil

Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, 1996

Air pollutant emissions from the industrial complex of Cubatao, Brazil, have led to a severe dete... more Air pollutant emissions from the industrial complex of Cubatao, Brazil, have led to a severe deterioration of the Atlantic Forest ecosystem. In a field study, leaves of the tree species Tibouchina pulchra, Miconia pyrifolia, and Cecropia glazioui were collected at four sites with different pollution characteristics. Leaf fluoride contents of the three species were found to be highly elevated in a valley near to fertilizer factories. In an area further from the emission sources, which in the past had been affected by fluoride pollution, fluoride concentrations in Tibouchina and Miconia continued to be elevated. Preliminary exposure experiments using Tibouchina seedlings as accumulative indicators are reported.

Research paper thumbnail of Response of stress indicators and growth parameters of Tibouchina pulchra Cogn. exposed to air and soil pollution near the industrial complex of Cubatão, Brazil

Science of The Total Environment, 2000

The present study was performed in the vicinity of the industrial complex of Cubatao, Sao Paulo, ... more The present study was performed in the vicinity of the industrial complex of Cubatao, Sao Paulo, Brazil, in order tõŽ . evaluate the response of 'manaca da serra' Tibouchina pulchra Cogn. Melastomataceae , a common species of secondary Atlantic Rain Forest vegetation, to the impact of complex air pollution. Emphasis was given to changes of biochemical parameters such as ascorbic acid concentration, peroxidase activity, contents of water-soluble thiols, pH of leaf extract and buffering capacity. These plant factors are often used as early indicators of air pollution stress.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of the vegetation risk by fluoride emissions from fertiliser industries at Cubatão, Brazil

Science of The Total Environment, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of Plants as bioindicators of air pollution at the serra do mar near the industrial complex of Cubatão, Brazil

Environmental Pollution, 1994

As a result of air pollutant emisstons from the industrial complex of Cubatdo, Brazil, the Atlant... more As a result of air pollutant emisstons from the industrial complex of Cubatdo, Brazil, the Atlantic Forest vegetation of the Serra do Mar shows severe and widespread damage. In order to obtain information on the type, intensiO, and causes of the vegetation damage, bioindicator plants were exposed at different distances from the emission sources. Air-pollution-induced effects were evaluated by estimation of visible inju o, symptoms and chemical analyses of leaves. The results prove the occurrence of phytotoxic levels of photochemical oxidants in wide parts of the research area. Intense fluoride-induced damage and high leaf fluoride concentrations were found in a valley downwind of fertiliser industries. The stud), showed that some of the traditional standardised bioindication methods fi'om temperate climates may be successfidly employed in biomonitoring programmes in trop#al and subtropical regions.

Research paper thumbnail of Bioindication of air pollution effects near a copper smelter in Brazil using mango trees and soil microbiological properties

Environmental Pollution, 2003

A field study near the copper smelter of a large industrial complex examined air pollution effect... more A field study near the copper smelter of a large industrial complex examined air pollution effects on vegetation and soil parameters in Camaçari (northeast Brazil). Close to the smelter, soil pH-value was lower and total acidity as well as organic carbon contents were higher compared with a site far from the source and two reference sites. The acidification of top soil particularly and the drastically enhanced plant-available copper concentrations were caused by atmospheric deposition. High sulphur and copper deposition significantly reduced microbial biomass and altered functional diversity of soil microorganisms (arylsulphatase and xylanase). Large accumulations of sulphur, arsenic and copper were detected in mango leaves (Mangifera indica) growing downwind from the smelter suggesting potential food chain-mediated risk.

Research paper thumbnail of Tradescantia micronucleus test indicates genotoxic potential of traffic emissions in European cities

Environmental Pollution, 2006

The Tradescantia micronucleus test can be used to assess genotoxic potential at urban sites.

Research paper thumbnail of Environmental monitoring of fluoride emissions using precipitation, dust, plant and soil samples

Environmental Pollution, 2006

A pronounced pollution gradient was observed in precipitation, plants and soils sampled at differ... more A pronounced pollution gradient was observed in precipitation, plants and soils sampled at different locations around a fluoride emitting chemical plant in Germany.

Research paper thumbnail of Hemerocallis as bioindicator of fluoride pollution in tropical countries

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 1995

In the frame of an active monitoring study at the Serra do Mar near the industrial pool of Cubat~... more In the frame of an active monitoring study at the Serra do Mar near the industrial pool of Cubat~o, Brazil, Hemerocallis was tested for its suitability as bioindicator of airborne fluoride pollution. In a screening experiment with various cultivars comparison of susceptibility, correlation of visible injury and foliar fluoride concentration as well as comparison with exposure of Gladiolus gave best results for the Hemerocallis cultivar 'Red Moon'. When exposed simultaneously foliar fluoride accumulation of HemerocaIlis showed a highly significant linear correlation with fluoride content of Lolium multiflorum, the 'standardized grass culture' and Gladiolus, well-known bioindicator species for fluoride impact. With respect to the extent of foliar injury Hemerocallis was less sensitive than Gladiolus, in terms of accumulation capacity it ranged between Lolium and Gladiolus. In general, the results of the biomonitoring study proved that the Atlantic Forest vegetation in a valley downwind from the Cubat~o fertilizer industries is still suffering from severe fluoride pollution.

Research paper thumbnail of Tropical fruit trees as bioindicators of industrial air pollution in southeast Brazil

Environment International, 2002

Psidium guajava L., Psidium cattleyanum Sabine and Mangifera indica L. were tested under field co... more Psidium guajava L., Psidium cattleyanum Sabine and Mangifera indica L. were tested under field conditions as possible tropical bioindicators of industrial air pollution. The study was performed around the industrial complex of Cubatão, SE Brazil, which comprises 23 industries, including fertilizer, cement, chemical, petrochemical, and steel plants, with 110 production units and 260 emission sources of pollutants. Saplings were exposed to environmental conditions during four periods of 16 weeks each (September 1994 -September 1995, at four different sites in the coastal mountains near the industrial complex: the Valley of Pilões River (VP), the reference area; the Valley of Mogi River (VM), with high contamination of particulate matter, fluorides (F), sulfur (S) and nitrogen (N) compounds; Caminho do Mar (CM1, CM2), mainly affected by organic pollutants, S and N compounds, and secondary pollutants; and Paranapiacaba (PP), affected by secondary pollutants, such as ozone. M. indica did not adapt to the climatic conditions at the exposure sites. In the two Psidium species, the presence of visible symptoms, root/shoot ratio, foliar contents of F, S and N, amounts of ascorbate (AA) and watersoluble thiols ( -SH), as well as peroxidase activity (POD) were determined. P. guajava showed higher foliar accumulation of F, S and N, more pronounced alterations of biochemical indicators, and less visible leaf injury than P. cattleyanum. P. guajava may be used as an accumulative indicator in tropical climates, while further studies will be needed before P. cattleyanum might be applied as a sensitive species in biomonitoring programs. D

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of complex air pollution on tree species of the Atlantic Rain Forest near Cubatão, Brazil

Chemosphere, 1998

The industrial complex of Cubat~o, SE-Brazil, is presented as a typical example of the increasing... more The industrial complex of Cubat~o, SE-Brazil, is presented as a typical example of the increasing environmental problems of developing and threshold countries. As a consequence of high air pollutant emissions the Atlantic Rain Forest shows severe decline symptoms. Studies with native tree species including field investigations in the stand and exposure experiments with young trees revealed an accumulation of toxic elements like fluoride and sulphur in the leaves, alterations of mineral economy, metabolic changes typical for stress situations and modifications of growth characteristics. These findings are discussed with respect to the vegetation risk by air pollution.

Research paper thumbnail of Active biomonitoring of airborne fluoride near an HF producing factory using standardised grass cultures

Atmospheric Environment, 2007

In order to study the pollution gradient in the vicinity of an HF producing factory, a biomonitor... more In order to study the pollution gradient in the vicinity of an HF producing factory, a biomonitoring programme was performed employing VDI standardised grass cultures. Specimen plants of Lolium multiflorum cv. Lema were exposed at 11 sites over five monthly periods and the biomass produced was used for subsequent F-analyses. Meteorological data from the study region confirmed that wind direction

Research paper thumbnail of Ozone pollution and ozone biomonitoring in European cities. Part I: Ozone concentrations and cumulative exposure indices at urban and suburban sites

Atmospheric Environment, 2006

Within the scope of a biomonitoring study conducted in twelve urban agglomerations in eight Europ... more Within the scope of a biomonitoring study conducted in twelve urban agglomerations in eight European countries, the ozone-sensitive bioindicator plant Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bel-W3 was employed in order to assess the occurrence of phytotoxic ozone effects at urban, suburban, rural and traffic-exposed sites. The tobacco plants were exposed to ambient air for biweekly periods at up to 100 biomonitoring sites from 2000 to 2002. Special emphasis was placed upon methodological standardisation of plant cultivation, field exposure and injury assessment. Ozone-induced leaf injury showed a clearly increasing gradient from northern and northwestern Europe to central and southern European locations. The strongest ozone impact occurred at the exposure sites in Lyon and Barcelona, while in Edinburgh, Sheffield, Copenhagen and Du¨sseldorf only weak to moderate ozone effects were registered. Between-site differences within local networks were relatively small, but seasonal and inter-annual differences were strong due to the variability of meteorological conditions and related ozone concentrations.

Research paper thumbnail of Airborne trace element pollution in 11 European cities assessed by exposure of standardised ryegrass cultures

Atmospheric Environment, 2009

Within a European biomonitoring programme, Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) was employe... more Within a European biomonitoring programme, Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) was employed as accumulative bioindicator of airborne trace elements (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Sb, V, Zn) in urban agglomerations. Applying a highly standardised method, grass cultures were exposed for consecutive periods of four weeks each to ambient air at up to 100 sites in 11 cities during 2000-2002. Results of the 2001 exposure experiments revealed a clear differentiation of trace element pollution within and among local monitoring networks. Pollution was influenced particularly by traffic emissions. Especially Sb, Pb, Cr, Fe, and Cu exhibited a very uneven distribution within the municipal areas with strong accumulation in plants from traffic-exposed sites in the city centres and close to major roads, and moderate to low levels in plants exposed at suburban or rural sites. Accumulation of Ni and V was influenced by other emission sources. The biomonitoring sites located in Spanish city centres featured a much higher pollution load by trace elements than those in other cities of the network, confirming previously reported findings obtained by chemical analyses of dust deposition and aerosols. At some heavilytrafficked sites, legal thresholds for Cu, Pb, and V contents in foodstuff and animal feed were reached or even surpassed. The study confirmed that the standardised grass exposure is a useful and reliable tool to monitor and to assess environmental levels of potentially toxic compounds of particulate matter.

Research paper thumbnail of Ozone pollution and ozone biomonitoring in European cities Part II. Ozone-induced plant injury and its relationship with descriptors of ozone pollution

Atmospheric Environment, 2006

Within the scope of a biomonitoring study conducted in twelve urban agglomerations in eight Europ... more Within the scope of a biomonitoring study conducted in twelve urban agglomerations in eight European countries, the ozone-sensitive bioindicator plant Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bel-W3 was employed in order to assess the occurrence of phytotoxic ozone effects at urban, suburban, rural and traffic-exposed sites. The tobacco plants were exposed to ambient air for biweekly periods at up to 100 biomonitoring sites from 2000 to 2002. Special emphasis was placed upon methodological standardisation of plant cultivation, field exposure and injury assessment. Ozone-induced leaf injury showed a clearly increasing gradient from northern and northwestern Europe to central and southern European locations. The strongest ozone impact occurred at the exposure sites in Lyon and Barcelona, while in Edinburgh, Sheffield, Copenhagen and Du¨sseldorf only weak to moderate ozone effects were registered. Between-site differences within local networks were relatively small, but seasonal and inter-annual differences were strong due to the variability of meteorological conditions and related ozone concentrations.

Research paper thumbnail of Accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and trace elements in the bioindicator plants Tillandsia capillaris and Lolium multiflorum exposed at PM 10 monitoring stations in Stuttgart (Germany)

Chemosphere, 2010

The accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Tillandsia capillaris Ruiz and Pav... more The accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Tillandsia capillaris Ruiz and Pav. form capillaris and trace elements in T. capillaris and Lolium multiflorum (LAM) cv. Lema was assessed and evaluated in the city of Stuttgart, Germany. Several sites (urban, suburban and rural) categorized according to type and intensity of vehicular traffic were investigated. At these sites, plants of T.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Pb and Zn contents in agricultural soils and soybean crops near to a former battery recycling plant in Córdoba, Argentina

Journal of Geochemical Exploration

A field study was carried out in the vicinity of a former battery recycling plant, with heavy met... more A field study was carried out in the vicinity of a former battery recycling plant, with heavy metal content (Pb and Zn), the toxicological risk of seed consumption of soybean crops [Glycine Max (L.) Merr.] grown on these soils and their relation with seed quality being evaluated. The concentrations of Pb and Zn in soybeans (roots, stems, pods and seeds) and in top soils were investigated and their potential risk to the health of consumers was estimated. Furthermore, quality related seed parameters (standard germination test, tetrazolium test, biomass and weight of 1000 seeds) were obtained. The results show that the concentrations of Pb in soybeans at all sites (controls and close to the smelter) were above the maximum permitted levels. Seed quality decreased as the lead concentration increased in seeds from sites near to the former battery recycling plant. Moreover, the greatest accumulation of Zn in seeds was found at sites with high concentrations of Pb in soils. Taking into acco...

Research paper thumbnail of Tradescantia micronucleus test indicates genotoxic potential of traffic emissions in European cities

The Tradescantia micronucleus test can be used to assess genotoxic potential at urban sites.

Research paper thumbnail of Foliar Nutrient Contents in Tree Species of the Atlantic Rain Forest as Influenced by Air Pollution from the Industrial Complex of Cubatão, SE-Brazil

Air pollutant emissions from the industrial complex of Cubatão, SE-Brazil, have caused a severe d... more Air pollutant emissions from the industrial complex of Cubatão, SE-Brazil, have caused a severe decline of the Atlantic Forest in that region. In order to test the influence of air pollution on the mineral nutrition of trees, leaves of the native species Tibouchina pulchra Cogn. (Melastomataceae), Miconia pyrifolia Naud. (Melastomataceae) and Cecropia glazioui Snethl. (Cecropiaceae) were sampled during winter and summer seasons at four sites with different pollution characteristics. Additionally, saplings of T. pulchra were cultivated in uniform soil and exposed to ambient air at the same experimental sites for periods of 16 weeks. In both kinds of leaf samples, the concentrations of macro-nutrients were determined and nutrient ratios calculated. In leaves of mature T. pulchra and C. glazioui growing at polluted sites N, P and S levels were significantly higher than in trees from the reference area. With respect to K contents, C. glazioui showed an increase, T. pulchra a decrease when compared to reference trees. Mg and Ca concentrations generally did not exhibit great variations. As a consequence of the changes in mineral contents nutrient ratios (N/K, N/Ca, S/K, S/Ca) shifted to higher values. The results of the exposure experiments together with data on pollutant concentrations in ambient air and rain water demonstrated that atmospheric deposition to the plants and pollution effects on the soil chemistry are the main reasons for the observed alterations in mineral nutrition of trees.

Research paper thumbnail of Biomonitoring of airborne fluoride and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in industrial areas of Córdoba, Argentina, using standardized grass cultures of Lolium multiflorum

Atmospheric Pollution Research, 2015

A biomonitoring study was performed employing standardized grass cultures. Plants of Lolium multi... more A biomonitoring study was performed employing standardized grass cultures. Plants of Lolium multiflorum were exposed at 4 industrial sites over three-month periods in two seasons (dry and rainy) and the biomass produced was used for subsequent measurements of fluoride, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (phenanthrene, anthracene, pyrene, benzo[a]anthracene, chrysene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, benzo[k]fluoranthene, benzo[a]pyrene, dibenzo[a,h]anthracene and benzo[g,h,i]perylene), total chlorophyll, malondialdehyde, water, and sulfur content. The total content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) revealed seasonal variations, with the highest values corresponding to the dry season, although this species showed a high retention capacity of PAHs during rainy season. In addition, sampling sites with high vehicular traffic and metal-mechanical industries were associated with the highest content of PAHs. Furthermore, physiological degradation associated with anthropogenic activities in the sampling sites was observed. Fluoride content in the biomonitor was associated with the production and use of cement, which was higher in the dry season.

Research paper thumbnail of Ozone Biomonitoring with Bel-W3 Tobacco Plants in the City of Valencia (Spain)

Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, 2007

A biomonitoring study using the ozonesensitive bioindicator plant Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bel-W3 wa... more A biomonitoring study using the ozonesensitive bioindicator plant Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bel-W3 was conducted in the city of Valencia (eastern Spain) and surrounding areas in 2002. Plants were exposed to ambient air at seven sites, including four traffic-exposed urban sites, a large urban garden and a suburban and a rural station, for six consecutive 2-week periods using highly standardised methods. Foliar injury was registered at all stations in at least one of the exposure periods. The urban stations submitted to intense traffic showed lower ozone injury than the less traffic-exposed stations. Strong changes in the intensity of ozone injury were observed for the different exposure periods. Leaf injury was significantly related to both mean ozone values (24 and 12 h means) and cumulative exposure indices (AOT20, AOT40). However, correlation strength was moderate (r s =0.39 to 0.58), suggesting that the plant response to ozone was modified by environmental factors. The use of sensitive bioindicators like tobacco Bel-W3 in cities provides complementary information to that of continuously operating air quality monitors, as the impact of ambient ozone levels is directly measured.

Research paper thumbnail of Fluoride impact on native tree species of the atlantic forest near Cubat�o, Brazil

Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, 1996

Air pollutant emissions from the industrial complex of Cubatao, Brazil, have led to a severe dete... more Air pollutant emissions from the industrial complex of Cubatao, Brazil, have led to a severe deterioration of the Atlantic Forest ecosystem. In a field study, leaves of the tree species Tibouchina pulchra, Miconia pyrifolia, and Cecropia glazioui were collected at four sites with different pollution characteristics. Leaf fluoride contents of the three species were found to be highly elevated in a valley near to fertilizer factories. In an area further from the emission sources, which in the past had been affected by fluoride pollution, fluoride concentrations in Tibouchina and Miconia continued to be elevated. Preliminary exposure experiments using Tibouchina seedlings as accumulative indicators are reported.

Research paper thumbnail of Response of stress indicators and growth parameters of Tibouchina pulchra Cogn. exposed to air and soil pollution near the industrial complex of Cubatão, Brazil

Science of The Total Environment, 2000

The present study was performed in the vicinity of the industrial complex of Cubatao, Sao Paulo, ... more The present study was performed in the vicinity of the industrial complex of Cubatao, Sao Paulo, Brazil, in order tõŽ . evaluate the response of 'manaca da serra' Tibouchina pulchra Cogn. Melastomataceae , a common species of secondary Atlantic Rain Forest vegetation, to the impact of complex air pollution. Emphasis was given to changes of biochemical parameters such as ascorbic acid concentration, peroxidase activity, contents of water-soluble thiols, pH of leaf extract and buffering capacity. These plant factors are often used as early indicators of air pollution stress.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of the vegetation risk by fluoride emissions from fertiliser industries at Cubatão, Brazil

Science of The Total Environment, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of Plants as bioindicators of air pollution at the serra do mar near the industrial complex of Cubatão, Brazil

Environmental Pollution, 1994

As a result of air pollutant emisstons from the industrial complex of Cubatdo, Brazil, the Atlant... more As a result of air pollutant emisstons from the industrial complex of Cubatdo, Brazil, the Atlantic Forest vegetation of the Serra do Mar shows severe and widespread damage. In order to obtain information on the type, intensiO, and causes of the vegetation damage, bioindicator plants were exposed at different distances from the emission sources. Air-pollution-induced effects were evaluated by estimation of visible inju o, symptoms and chemical analyses of leaves. The results prove the occurrence of phytotoxic levels of photochemical oxidants in wide parts of the research area. Intense fluoride-induced damage and high leaf fluoride concentrations were found in a valley downwind of fertiliser industries. The stud), showed that some of the traditional standardised bioindication methods fi'om temperate climates may be successfidly employed in biomonitoring programmes in trop#al and subtropical regions.

Research paper thumbnail of Bioindication of air pollution effects near a copper smelter in Brazil using mango trees and soil microbiological properties

Environmental Pollution, 2003

A field study near the copper smelter of a large industrial complex examined air pollution effect... more A field study near the copper smelter of a large industrial complex examined air pollution effects on vegetation and soil parameters in Camaçari (northeast Brazil). Close to the smelter, soil pH-value was lower and total acidity as well as organic carbon contents were higher compared with a site far from the source and two reference sites. The acidification of top soil particularly and the drastically enhanced plant-available copper concentrations were caused by atmospheric deposition. High sulphur and copper deposition significantly reduced microbial biomass and altered functional diversity of soil microorganisms (arylsulphatase and xylanase). Large accumulations of sulphur, arsenic and copper were detected in mango leaves (Mangifera indica) growing downwind from the smelter suggesting potential food chain-mediated risk.

Research paper thumbnail of Tradescantia micronucleus test indicates genotoxic potential of traffic emissions in European cities

Environmental Pollution, 2006

The Tradescantia micronucleus test can be used to assess genotoxic potential at urban sites.

Research paper thumbnail of Environmental monitoring of fluoride emissions using precipitation, dust, plant and soil samples

Environmental Pollution, 2006

A pronounced pollution gradient was observed in precipitation, plants and soils sampled at differ... more A pronounced pollution gradient was observed in precipitation, plants and soils sampled at different locations around a fluoride emitting chemical plant in Germany.

Research paper thumbnail of Hemerocallis as bioindicator of fluoride pollution in tropical countries

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 1995

In the frame of an active monitoring study at the Serra do Mar near the industrial pool of Cubat~... more In the frame of an active monitoring study at the Serra do Mar near the industrial pool of Cubat~o, Brazil, Hemerocallis was tested for its suitability as bioindicator of airborne fluoride pollution. In a screening experiment with various cultivars comparison of susceptibility, correlation of visible injury and foliar fluoride concentration as well as comparison with exposure of Gladiolus gave best results for the Hemerocallis cultivar 'Red Moon'. When exposed simultaneously foliar fluoride accumulation of HemerocaIlis showed a highly significant linear correlation with fluoride content of Lolium multiflorum, the 'standardized grass culture' and Gladiolus, well-known bioindicator species for fluoride impact. With respect to the extent of foliar injury Hemerocallis was less sensitive than Gladiolus, in terms of accumulation capacity it ranged between Lolium and Gladiolus. In general, the results of the biomonitoring study proved that the Atlantic Forest vegetation in a valley downwind from the Cubat~o fertilizer industries is still suffering from severe fluoride pollution.

Research paper thumbnail of Tropical fruit trees as bioindicators of industrial air pollution in southeast Brazil

Environment International, 2002

Psidium guajava L., Psidium cattleyanum Sabine and Mangifera indica L. were tested under field co... more Psidium guajava L., Psidium cattleyanum Sabine and Mangifera indica L. were tested under field conditions as possible tropical bioindicators of industrial air pollution. The study was performed around the industrial complex of Cubatão, SE Brazil, which comprises 23 industries, including fertilizer, cement, chemical, petrochemical, and steel plants, with 110 production units and 260 emission sources of pollutants. Saplings were exposed to environmental conditions during four periods of 16 weeks each (September 1994 -September 1995, at four different sites in the coastal mountains near the industrial complex: the Valley of Pilões River (VP), the reference area; the Valley of Mogi River (VM), with high contamination of particulate matter, fluorides (F), sulfur (S) and nitrogen (N) compounds; Caminho do Mar (CM1, CM2), mainly affected by organic pollutants, S and N compounds, and secondary pollutants; and Paranapiacaba (PP), affected by secondary pollutants, such as ozone. M. indica did not adapt to the climatic conditions at the exposure sites. In the two Psidium species, the presence of visible symptoms, root/shoot ratio, foliar contents of F, S and N, amounts of ascorbate (AA) and watersoluble thiols ( -SH), as well as peroxidase activity (POD) were determined. P. guajava showed higher foliar accumulation of F, S and N, more pronounced alterations of biochemical indicators, and less visible leaf injury than P. cattleyanum. P. guajava may be used as an accumulative indicator in tropical climates, while further studies will be needed before P. cattleyanum might be applied as a sensitive species in biomonitoring programs. D

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of complex air pollution on tree species of the Atlantic Rain Forest near Cubatão, Brazil

Chemosphere, 1998

The industrial complex of Cubat~o, SE-Brazil, is presented as a typical example of the increasing... more The industrial complex of Cubat~o, SE-Brazil, is presented as a typical example of the increasing environmental problems of developing and threshold countries. As a consequence of high air pollutant emissions the Atlantic Rain Forest shows severe decline symptoms. Studies with native tree species including field investigations in the stand and exposure experiments with young trees revealed an accumulation of toxic elements like fluoride and sulphur in the leaves, alterations of mineral economy, metabolic changes typical for stress situations and modifications of growth characteristics. These findings are discussed with respect to the vegetation risk by air pollution.

Research paper thumbnail of Active biomonitoring of airborne fluoride near an HF producing factory using standardised grass cultures

Atmospheric Environment, 2007

In order to study the pollution gradient in the vicinity of an HF producing factory, a biomonitor... more In order to study the pollution gradient in the vicinity of an HF producing factory, a biomonitoring programme was performed employing VDI standardised grass cultures. Specimen plants of Lolium multiflorum cv. Lema were exposed at 11 sites over five monthly periods and the biomass produced was used for subsequent F-analyses. Meteorological data from the study region confirmed that wind direction

Research paper thumbnail of Ozone pollution and ozone biomonitoring in European cities. Part I: Ozone concentrations and cumulative exposure indices at urban and suburban sites

Atmospheric Environment, 2006

Within the scope of a biomonitoring study conducted in twelve urban agglomerations in eight Europ... more Within the scope of a biomonitoring study conducted in twelve urban agglomerations in eight European countries, the ozone-sensitive bioindicator plant Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bel-W3 was employed in order to assess the occurrence of phytotoxic ozone effects at urban, suburban, rural and traffic-exposed sites. The tobacco plants were exposed to ambient air for biweekly periods at up to 100 biomonitoring sites from 2000 to 2002. Special emphasis was placed upon methodological standardisation of plant cultivation, field exposure and injury assessment. Ozone-induced leaf injury showed a clearly increasing gradient from northern and northwestern Europe to central and southern European locations. The strongest ozone impact occurred at the exposure sites in Lyon and Barcelona, while in Edinburgh, Sheffield, Copenhagen and Du¨sseldorf only weak to moderate ozone effects were registered. Between-site differences within local networks were relatively small, but seasonal and inter-annual differences were strong due to the variability of meteorological conditions and related ozone concentrations.

Research paper thumbnail of Airborne trace element pollution in 11 European cities assessed by exposure of standardised ryegrass cultures

Atmospheric Environment, 2009

Within a European biomonitoring programme, Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) was employe... more Within a European biomonitoring programme, Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) was employed as accumulative bioindicator of airborne trace elements (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Sb, V, Zn) in urban agglomerations. Applying a highly standardised method, grass cultures were exposed for consecutive periods of four weeks each to ambient air at up to 100 sites in 11 cities during 2000-2002. Results of the 2001 exposure experiments revealed a clear differentiation of trace element pollution within and among local monitoring networks. Pollution was influenced particularly by traffic emissions. Especially Sb, Pb, Cr, Fe, and Cu exhibited a very uneven distribution within the municipal areas with strong accumulation in plants from traffic-exposed sites in the city centres and close to major roads, and moderate to low levels in plants exposed at suburban or rural sites. Accumulation of Ni and V was influenced by other emission sources. The biomonitoring sites located in Spanish city centres featured a much higher pollution load by trace elements than those in other cities of the network, confirming previously reported findings obtained by chemical analyses of dust deposition and aerosols. At some heavilytrafficked sites, legal thresholds for Cu, Pb, and V contents in foodstuff and animal feed were reached or even surpassed. The study confirmed that the standardised grass exposure is a useful and reliable tool to monitor and to assess environmental levels of potentially toxic compounds of particulate matter.

Research paper thumbnail of Ozone pollution and ozone biomonitoring in European cities Part II. Ozone-induced plant injury and its relationship with descriptors of ozone pollution

Atmospheric Environment, 2006

Within the scope of a biomonitoring study conducted in twelve urban agglomerations in eight Europ... more Within the scope of a biomonitoring study conducted in twelve urban agglomerations in eight European countries, the ozone-sensitive bioindicator plant Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bel-W3 was employed in order to assess the occurrence of phytotoxic ozone effects at urban, suburban, rural and traffic-exposed sites. The tobacco plants were exposed to ambient air for biweekly periods at up to 100 biomonitoring sites from 2000 to 2002. Special emphasis was placed upon methodological standardisation of plant cultivation, field exposure and injury assessment. Ozone-induced leaf injury showed a clearly increasing gradient from northern and northwestern Europe to central and southern European locations. The strongest ozone impact occurred at the exposure sites in Lyon and Barcelona, while in Edinburgh, Sheffield, Copenhagen and Du¨sseldorf only weak to moderate ozone effects were registered. Between-site differences within local networks were relatively small, but seasonal and inter-annual differences were strong due to the variability of meteorological conditions and related ozone concentrations.