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ABSTRACT

For most soils, genetic inheritance is the determining factor of heavy metal abundance. The anthropogenic impact on the soil produced by fertilizers, pesticides, zootechnical residues, wastewater or particles brought to the soil by gaseous emissions, brings important quantities of heavy metals into the soil. Among these, the most toxic are Cd and Pb. The aim of the study was to establish the levels of Cd and Pb in soil and Beta vulgaris roots, sampled from eight locations from Tamaveni area, an industrial center from Romania. Soil samples were taken from the depth of 0-20 cm as well as 20-40 cm. For determinations we used the flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Our results reveal that in all sites, the values of Cd and Pb in soil were higher than the normal values for Romania (1 ppm for Cd and 20 ppm for Pb). Corresponding to one location, the alert value established by legislation for Pb (50 ppm) was also exceeded. In four of the eight locations, the Cd content in the roots of Beta vulgaris exceeded the maximum admissible value for plants (0.1 ppm). In conclusion, following the results obtained, we recommend monitoring the content of these toxic metals in the soil and plants grown in this area.

Keywords: pollution, heavy metals, accumulation

INTRODUCTION

For most soils, genetic inheritance is the determining factor of heavy metal abundance [15].

The anthropogenic impact on the soil produced by fertilizers, pesticides, zootechnical residues, wastewater or particles brought to the soil by gaseous emissions, brings important quantities of heavy metals into the soil. Among these, the most toxic for the environment are Cd and Pb, because these heavy metals are a threat for both plants and humans [4], [7-11].

The studies made by Lacatusu et al., prove that 70-80% from the total heavy metals content is mobile forms, that could be accumulated by plants [9].

A lot of studies have indicated that the consumption of beetroot brings benefits, by reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes mellitus [2],[12].

Beetroot is considered a good source of minerals such as Fe, P, Ca, K,...

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