Abstract Detail

Bryology and Lichenology

Johnson, Linda MK [1], Erin, Davis [2], Dunkleberger, Rebecca [3], Peyman, Tyler [4], Stroud, Jaclyn [2].

Trace Metal Accumulation in Lichen at Powdermill Nature Reserve.

This unique structure of lichen promotes the organism's acquisition of nutrients from the atmosphere during growth. Along with necessary nutrients, lichen may accumulate airborne heavy metals and consequently serve as monitors of pollution near urban centers. The Powdermill Nature Reserve, located in western Pennsylvania, presents a unique research opportunity due to its forest blowdown areas from a 2012 microburst. Foliose lichen samples were collected from the unsalvaged portion of the blowdowns, the undisturbed forest interior, and from a forest-roadway edge. Samples from these habitats were digested in nitric acid and their incorporation of Pb, Cd, Cu, Zn, and Mn were analyzed with Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Current results indicate high values for Pb accumulation, elevated levels of Cd, and lower levels of Cu across all habitats compared with other recent studies using lichen as biomonitors.

1 - Chatham University, Sustainability, 6035 Ridge Road, Falk School Of Sustainability And Environment, Gibsonia, PA, 15044, United States
2 - Chatham University, Biology, Woodland Road, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, United States
3 - Chatham University, Biology, Woodland Road, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, USA
4 - Chatham University, Sustainability, 6035 Ridge Rd, Gibsonia, PA, 15221, USA

Keywords:
lichen
biomonitors
trace metals.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: LICH1, Lichenology
Location: San Pedro 2/Starr Pass
Date: Monday, July 29th, 2019
Time: 4:30 PM
Number: LICH1012
Abstract ID:999
Candidate for Awards:None