Accumulation of trace metals in the lichen Evernia prunastri transplanted at biomonitoring sites in central Italy

Samples of the epiphytic lichen Evernia prunastri collected in an unpolluted area were transplanted to the urban environment of Teramo (central Italy). The influence of the transplant process on trace element content was found to be negligible and after only two months, concentrations of all elements (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn) were significantly higher than in control samples. It was suggested that motor traffic was the main source of atmospheric Cr, Cu and Pb, while for Cd and Zn additional sources from phosphate fertilizers and pesticides used in the surrounding farmlands were hypothesized. The possible uptake and accumulation processes of these metals in relation to time of exposure were discussed