ORCID Profile
0000-0002-5110-5166
Current Organisation
University of Melbourne
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Research Topics
In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Top 5 Research Topics
ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)
Wastewater treatment processes | Analytical Chemistry | Environmental Science and Management | Analytical Spectrometry | Chemical Characterisation of Materials | Soil Chemistry | Pollution and contamination not elsewhere classified | Environmental Management And Rehabilitation | Other Chemical Sciences | Chemical engineering | Soil chemistry and soil carbon sequestration (excl. carbon sequestration science) | Environmental Chemistry (incl. Atmospheric Chemistry) | Soil Chemistry (excl. Carbon Sequestration Science) | Land capability and soil productivity | Environmental management | Terrestrial Ecology | Soil sciences
ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)
Living resources (flora and fauna) | Rehabilitation of degraded mining lands | Expanding Knowledge in the Medical and Health Sciences | Rehabilitation of Degraded Urban and Industrial Environments | Rehabilitation of Degraded Mining Environments | Expanding Knowledge in the Chemical Sciences | Native vegetation | Expanding Knowledge in the Biological Sciences |
Related Links
Publications
Arsenic speciation in australian-grown and imported rice on sale in Australia: Implications for human health risk
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 17-06-2014
DOI: 10.1021/JF501077W
Abstract: Rice is an important route of arsenic (As) exposure to humans, especially populations with rice-based diets. Human health risk of As varies greatly with rice variety and country of origin. The purpose of the present study was to determine total and speciated As in Australian-grown and imported rice on sale in Australia to assess their health risk to consumers. The total As (tAs) concentrations in Australian-grown organic brown, medium grain brown, and organic white rice were 438±23, 287±03, and 283±18 μg kg(-1) dry weight (d wt), respectively. In Bangladeshi, Indian, Pakistani, and Thai rice imported and on sale in Australia, tAs concentrations were 56±05, 92±10, 82±06 and 172±24 μg kg(-1), respectively. Asian rice contained mainly inorganic As (iAs 86-99%), whereas 18-26% of the tAs in Australian-grown rice was dimethylarsinic acid (DMA). Relatively higher concentrations of tAs in Australian-grown rice than that in imported rice of Asian origin suggest that Australian-grown rice may be a health risk for the consumers. It was estimated that Australian-grown organic brown rice can contribute up to 98% of the FAO/WHO recommended maximum tolerable daily intake limit of iAs (2.1 μg kg(-1) body wt day(-1)) for Asian immigrants. However, other Australian consumers including European immigrants are unlikely to be at risk to As from rice diets due to their lower rice consumption rates than that of Asian immigrants. The risk assessment showed that imported rice on sale in Australia was likely to pose a lower health risk to consumers than Australian-grown rice.
Metal Chelation in the Rhizosphere
Publisher: American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, Soil Science Society of America
Date: 26-10-2015
The Variation in Groundwater Microbial Communities in an Unconfined Aquifer Contaminated by Multiple Nitrogen Contamination Sources
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 17-02-2022
DOI: 10.3390/W14040613
Abstract: Aquifers provide integral freshwater resources and host ecosystems of largely uncharacterized, truncated endemic microorganisms. In recent history, many aquifers have become increasingly contaminated from various anthropogenic sources. To better understand the impacts of nitrogen contamination on native groundwater ecosystems, 16S rRNA sequencing of the groundwater microbial communities was carried out. S les were taken from an aquifer known to be contaminated with nitrogen from multiple sources, including fertilizers and wastewater treatment plant effluents. In total, two primary contaminants were identified: NH4+ ( .1–3.7–26 mg L−1 NH4+ min-median-max), and NO3− ( .01–18–150 mg L−1 NO3− min-median-max). These contaminants were found to be associated with a decrease/increase in microbial species richness within affected groundwater for NH4+/NO3−, respectively. Important phyla were identified, including Proteobacteria, which had the highest abundance within s les unaffected by NH4+ (36–81% NH4+ unaffected, 4–33% NH4+ affected), and Planctomycetes (0.05–10% NH4+ unaffected, 43–72% NH4+ affected), which had the highest abundance within the NH4+ affected s les, likely due to its ability to perform anaerobic ammonia oxidation (ANAMMOX). Planctomycetes were identified as a potential indicator for the presence of NH4+ contamination. The analysis and characterization of sequencing data alongside physicochemical data showed potential to increase the depth of our understanding of contaminant behavior and fate within a contaminated aquifer using this type of data and analysis.
Metal bioavailability dynamics during a two-year trial using ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) grown in soils treated with biosolids and metal salts
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1071/SR11315
Abstract: A 24-month field lysimeter experiment using ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) grown in three soil types was used to investigate metal bioavailability dynamics following amendment with biosolids and metal salts (Cd, Cu, Ni, Zn). Common surrogates of soil metal bioavailability (total soil metal, EDTA, Ca(NO3)2, total dissolved, diffusive gradient in thin film, and modelled free ion activity) were determined on soil s les taken every 6 months. Ryegrass was also harvested every 6 months and analysed for metal concentrations. Across soils and treatments dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and pH decreased, whereas dissolved Ca and Mg increased with time. The free ion activity concentrations of each metal also increased over 24 months, whereas Ca(NO3)2-extracted metals were unchanged. Zinc presented the most changes in bioavailability status, with total Zn concentration decreasing over time, and EDTA-extractable and soil solution Zn increasing significantly by 1.82 mg kg–1 (1.1%) and 1.52 mg L–1 (29%), respectively. Shoot concentration of Zn increased by 1.32 mg kg–1 (2.7%), whereas shoot Ni concentration decreased by 0.65 mg kg–1 (4%). The findings of this study clearly demonstrated that over 24 months, soil metal bioavailability and shoot metal concentrations register only minor changes and appear to be unaffected by soil DOC and pH fluctuations.
Arsenic Concentrations and Dietary Exposure in Rice-Based Infant Food in Australia
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 08-01-2020
Abstract: Rice-based products are widely used to feed infants and young children. However, the association of rice-based products and high arsenic (As) concentrations have been investigated in a number of studies, but there is limited information from Australia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the As concentration and dietary exposure in infant rice milk, cereal, crackers and pasta as well as to investigate the relationship between As concentration and rice content, rice type and product origin. Total arsenic (tAs) concentrations were determined by nitric acid digestion and ICP-MS while inorganic arsenic (iAs) was determined by acid extraction, followed by ICP-MS with an interfaced hydride generation system. Nearly 75% of s les had inorganic As exceeding the EU maximum levels for infants and children (0.1 mg kg−1) and the mean iAs percentage of total reached as high as 84.8%. High tAs concentration was positively correlated with rice content and also related to brown (wholegrain). Estimates of dietary exposure showed that infants consuming large amounts of rice pasta or crackers will have an increased risk of health impact associated with excess intake of As through dietary exposure. Moreover, the current Australian guidelines for As in rice (1 mg kg−1) are above the WHO or EU guideline and therefore, will be less protective of high sensitivity consumers like infants and children.
Seedling responses of four Australian tree species to toxic concentrations of manganese in solution culture
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2004
Immobilisation of geogenic arsenic and vanadium in iron-rich sediments and iron stone deposits
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2018.10.427
Abstract: Determination of how geogenic arsenic (As) and vanadium (V) is mobilised from naturally-enriched soils and iron (Fe) stones is integral for understanding the potential risk to the environment from changed land use conditions. Thus, the association of As, V and Fe in As-enriched sediments and Fe stones in Tertiary sediments of Melbourne, Australia, was assessed using chemical extraction methods, micro focused X-ray fluorescence and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. We show that the selective association of As with Fe during Fe stone formation has resulted in As enrichment of up to 60 times the concentration of surrounding soils, and 1000 times higher than mean As concentrations in world soils. In both soil and Fe stones, As was distributed with goethite as arsenate and relatively immobile under oxic conditions. The presence of V on the outer edge of the assessed Fe stone provided evidence of differences in historical As and V solubility that is, As was immobilised by Fe during an earlier stage of Fe stone formation than V.
Heavy metals in Australian grown and imported rice and vegetables on sale in Australia: Health hazard
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOENV.2013.11.024
Abstract: Dietary exposure to heavy metals is a matter of concern for human health risk through the consumption of rice, vegetables and other major foodstuffs. In the present study, we investigated concentrations of cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in Australian grown and imported rice and vegetables on sale in Australia. The mean concentrations of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn in Australian grown rice were 7.5 µg kg(-1), 21 µg kg(-1), 144 µg kg(-1), 2.9 mg kg(-1), 24.4 mg kg(-1), 166 µg kg(-1), 375 µg kg(-1), and 17.1 mg kg(-1) dry weight (d. wt.), respectively. Except Cd, heavy metal concentrations in Australian grown rice were higher than Bangladeshi rice on sale in Australia. However, the concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, and Ni in Indian rice on sale in Australia were higher than Australian grown rice. The concentrations of Cu and Ni in Vietnamese rice, and that of Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Pb in Thai rice on sale in Australia were also higher than Australian grown rice. Heavy metal concentrations in Pakistani rice on sale in Australia were substantially lower than that in Australian grown rice. In Australian grown rice varieties, the concentrations of heavy metals were considerably higher in brown rice varieties than white rice varieties, indicating Australian brown rice as a potential source of dietary heavy metals for Australian consumers. The mean concentrations of heavy metals in Australian grown and Bangladeshi vegetables on sale in Australia were also determined. Some of the Australian grown and Bangladeshi vegetables contained heavy metals higher than Australian standard maximum limits indicating them as potential sources of dietary heavy metals for Australian consumers. Further investigation is required to estimate health risks of heavy metals from rice and vegetables consumption for Australian consumers.
Inundation of a floodplain lake woodlands system: nutritional profiling and benefit to mature Eucalyptus largiflorens (Black Box) trees
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-2018
Seedling responses of three Australian tree species to toxic concentrations of zinc in solution culture
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2001
Assessing the Plant Growth Promoting and Arsenic Tolerance Potential of Bradyrhizobium japonicum CB1809
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-09-2020
Effects of copper fungicide residues on the microbial function of vineyard soils
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-08-2013
DOI: 10.1007/S11356-012-1114-7
Abstract: The use of copper-based fungicides leads to an accumulation of copper (Cu) in vineyard soils, potentially causing adverse effects to the microbial function and fertility of the soil. This study used a soil microcosm approach to assess the effects of Cu accumulation on microbial function in vineyard soils. Surface soil s les were collected from 10 vineyards and a number of un-impacted reference sites in each of three different viticultural regions of Australia. The field-collected soils were transferred to microcosms and maintained for up to 93 days in the laboratory at 20-22 °C and 60 % of their maximum water-holding capacity. The microbial function of the soils was indicated by measuring phosphomonoesterase, arylsulfatase, urease, and phenol oxidase activities. In general, the vineyard soils had greater concentrations of Cu and lower enzyme activities than in the reference soils, although a weak negative relationship between Cu and enzyme activity could only be found for phosphomonoesterase activity. The results show that soil physical-chemical properties (i.e., organic carbon, pH) are greater determinants of soil enzyme activity than increased soil Cu concentration at the Cu concentrations present in vineyard soils.
The potential use of the legume-rhizobium symbiosis for the remediation of arsenic contaminated sites
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2007
Soil Pollution and Remediation
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 05-08-2018
Abstract: n/a
Bioavailability of Cu, Zn, and Mn in Contaminated Soils and Speciation in Soil Solution
Publisher: CRC Press
Date: 25-01-2001
Geochemical indices and regression tree models for estimation of ambient background concentrations of copper, chromium, nickel and zinc in soil
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2018.06.138
Abstract: Geochemical ratios between elements of environmental concern and Fe have been recommended for estimation of "background" concentrations of Cr, Cu, Ni and Zn in soil. However, little research has occurred to assess the consistency of geochemical ratios across soils developed in different environments. Broad application of generic geochemical ratios could result in under or over estimation of anthropogenic impacts to soil and subsequent inaccurate assessment of risk to the environment. A soil survey was undertaken in Victoria, Australia, including collection of s les (n = 622) from surface (0-0.1 m below ground level) and sub-surface (0.3-0.6 m below ground level) soils, overlying Tertiary-Quaternary basalt, Tertiary sediments and Silurian siltstones and sandstones. S les were analyzed for metals and soil physical and chemical properties (particle size, cation exchange capacity, organic matter and pH). Geochemical correlations between elements in soils from different parent materials and environments were compared against geochemical relationships reported in Australia and internationally. Ratios of Cr and Fe were relatively consistent across parent materials, and comparable to published models for estimation of background Cr. Conversely, ratios between Cu, Ni, and Zn with Fe, were variable between soils developed in different weathering environments and/or soil depths. Alternative regression equations and rule based regression tree models were developed as an improved means for prediction of ambient background Cu, Ni and Zn concentrations in soil. Ambient background concentrations of Ni and Cr were predictable across parent materials and depths, allowing these models to be extended to soils across Australia and potentially internationally.
Evaluation of methods for managing censored results when calculating the geometric mean
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2017.10.038
Abstract: Currently, there are conflicting views on the best statistical methods for managing censored environmental data. The method commonly applied by environmental science researchers and professionals is to substitute half the limit of reporting for derivation of summary statistics. This approach has been criticised by some researchers, raising questions around the interpretation of historical scientific data. This study evaluated four complete soil datasets, at three levels of simulated censorship, to test the accuracy of a range of censored data management methods for calculation of the geometric mean. The methods assessed included removal of censored results, substitution of a fixed value (near zero, half the limit of reporting and the limit of reporting), substitution by nearest neighbour imputation, maximum likelihood estimation, regression on order substitution and Kaplan-Meier/survival analysis. This is the first time such a comprehensive range of censored data management methods have been applied to assess the accuracy of calculation of the geometric mean. The results of this study show that, for describing the geometric mean, the simple method of substitution of half the limit of reporting is comparable or more accurate than alternative censored data management methods, including nearest neighbour imputation methods.
The design and synthesis of fluorescent coumarin derivatives and their study for Cu2+ sensing with an application for aqueous soil extracts
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-10-2019
DOI: 10.3390/MOLECULES24193569
Abstract: A series of fluorescent coumarin derivatives 2a–e were systematically designed, synthesized and studied for their Cu2+ sensing performance in aqueous media. The sensitivities and selectivities of the on-to-off fluorescent Cu2+ sensing signal were in direct correlation with the relative arrangements of the heteroatoms within the coordinating moieties of these coumarins. Probes 2b and 2d exhibited Cu2+ concentration dependent and selective fluorescence quenching, with linear ranges of 0–80 μM and 0–10 μM, and limits of detection of 0.14 μM and 0.38 μM, respectively. Structural changes of 2b upon Cu2+ coordination were followed by fluorescence titration, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), mass spectrometry, and single crystal X-ray diffraction on the isolated Cu2+-coumarin complex. The results revealed a 1:1 stoichiometry between 2b and Cu2+, and that the essential structural features for Cu2+-selective coordination are the coumarin C=O and a three-bond distance between the amide NH and heterocyclic N. Probe 2b was also used to determine copper (II) levels in aqueous soil extracts, with recovery rates over 80% when compared to the standard soil analysis method: inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).
Case studies and evidence-based approaches to addressing urban soil lead contamination
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2017
Probing the effects of different lead compounds on the bioavailability of lead to plants
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2019.04.122
Abstract: Lead (Pb) is an important pollutant and is released into the environment in many forms. Different lead compounds have a variety of solubilities and so may impact on lead bioavailability and toxicity when added to soil. In this experimental study, we investigated the bioavailability of Pb in soil spiked with 300, 900 and 1500 mg/kg of Pb-acetate, PbCl
Assessment of ambient background concentrations of elements in soil using combined survey and open-source data
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2016.12.106
Abstract: Understanding ambient background concentrations in soil, at a local scale, is an essential part of environmental risk assessment. Where high resolution geochemical soil surveys have not been undertaken, soil data from alternative sources, such as environmental site assessment reports, can be used to support an understanding of ambient background conditions. Concentrations of metals/metalloids (As, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) were extracted from open-source environmental site assessment reports, for soils derived from the Newer Volcanics basalt, of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. A manual screening method was applied to remove s les that were indicated to be contaminated by point sources and hence not representative of ambient background conditions. The manual screening approach was validated by comparison to data from a targeted background soil survey. Statistical methods for exclusion of contaminated s les from background soil datasets were compared to the manual screening method. The statistical methods tested included the Median plus Two Median Absolute Deviations, the upper whisker of a normal and log transformed Tukey boxplot, the point of inflection on a cumulative frequency plot and the 95th percentile. We have demonstrated that where anomalous s le results cannot be screened using site information, the Median plus Two Median Absolute Deviations is a conservative method for derivation of ambient background upper concentration limits (i.e. expected maximums). The upper whisker of a boxplot and the point of inflection on a cumulative frequency plot, were also considered adequate methods for deriving ambient background upper concentration limits, where the percentage of contaminated s les is <25%. Median ambient background concentrations of metals/metalloids in the Newer Volcanic soils of Melbourne were comparable to ambient background concentrations in Europe and the United States, except for Ni, which was naturally enriched in the basalt-derived soils of Melbourne.
Phytoremediation of Toxic Metals in Soils and Wetlands: Concepts and Applications
Publisher: Springer Japan
Date: 2016
Land application of industrial wastes: impacts on soil quality, biota, and human health
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-05-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S11356-023-26893-7
Abstract: Globally, waste disposal options such as landfill, incineration, and discharge to water, are not preferred long-term solutions due to their social, environmental, political, and economic implications. However, there is potential for increasing the sustainability of industrial processes by considering land application of industrial wastes. Applying waste to land can have beneficial outcomes including reducing waste sent to landfill and providing alternative nutrient sources for agriculture and other primary production. However, there are also potential hazards, including environmental contamination. This article reviewed the literature on industrial waste applications to soils and assessed the associated hazards and benefits. The review investigated wastes in relation to soil characteristics, dynamics between soils and waste constituents, and possible impacts on plants, animals, and humans. The current body of literature demonstrates the potential for the application of industrial waste into agricultural soils. The main challenge for applying industrial wastes to land is the presence of contaminants in some wastes and managing these to enhance positive effects and reduce negative outcomes to within acceptable limits. Examination of the literature also revealed several gaps in the research and opportunities for further investigation: specifically, a lack of long-term experiments and mass balance assessments, variable waste composition, and negative public opinion.
Industry wide risk assessment: A case study of Cu in Australian vineyard soils topical collection on remediation of site contamination
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-11-2013
Influence of increasing soil copper concentration on the susceptibility of phosphomonoesterase and urease to heat disturbance topical collection on remediation of site contamination
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-11-2013
Antimony leaching and chemical species analyses in an industrial solid waste: Surface and bulk speciation using ToF-SIMS and XANES
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2017.01.022
Abstract: The surface chemistry and bulk chemical speciation of solid industrial wastes containing 8wt-% antimony (Sb) were investigated using synchrotron X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (XANES) and Time-of-Flight Ion Secondary Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). Leaching experiments were conducted in order to better understand the behavior of Sb in waste streams and to inform regulatory management of antimony-containing wastes. The experiments also demonstrate how a combination of XANES and ToF-SIMS adds value to the field of waste investigations. Leaching treatments (acid and base) were performed at a synchrotron over 24h time periods. Surface analyses of the wastes before leaching showed the presence of Sb associated with S and O. Bulk analyses revealed Sb to be present, primarily, as trivalent sulfide species. Both acid and base leaching did not change the antimony speciation on the solid. Leaching transferred about 1% of the total Sb into solution where Sb was found to be present as Sb(V). XANES data showed similarities between leachate and FeSbO
Revisiting the metal-binding chemistry of nicotianamine and 2′-deoxymugineic acid. Implications for iron nutrition in strategy II plants
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 08-2002
DOI: 10.1104/PP.005009
Metal accumulation in roadside soil in Melbourne, Australia: Effect of road age, traffic density and vehicular speed
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2015.09.032
Abstract: Concentrations of vehicular emitted heavy metals in roadside soils result in long term environmental damage. This study assessed the relationships between traffic characteristics (traffic density, road age and vehicular speed) and roadside soil heavy metals. Significant levels were recorded for Cd (0.06-0.59 mg/kg), Cr (18-29 mg/kg), Cu (4-12 mg/kg), Ni (7-20 mg/kg), Mn (92-599 mg/kg), Pb (16-144 mg/kg) and Zn (10.36-88.75 mg/kg), with Mn concentrations exceeding the Ecological Investigation Level. Significant correlations were found between roadside soil metal concentration and vehicular speed (R = 0.90), road age (R = 0.82) and traffic density (R = 0.68). Recently introduced metals in automotive technology (e.g. Mn and Sb) were higher in younger roads, while the metals present for many years (e.g. Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn) were higher in medium and old age roads confirming the risk of significant metal deposition and soil metal retention in roadside soils.
Vegetation response of Australian native grass species redgrass (Bothriochloa macra (Steudel) S.T. Blake) and spider grass (Enteropogon acicularis (Lindl.) Lazarides) in saline and arsenic contaminated gold mine tailings: A glasshouse study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2014
Soil Explorer: Victorian Background Soil Database
Publisher: RMIT University
Date: 2020
Alleviation of Cu and Pb Rhizotoxicities in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) as Related to Ion Activities at Root-Cell Plasma Membrane Surface
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 12-05-2011
DOI: 10.1021/ES1041404
Abstract: Cations, such as Ca and Mg, are generally thought to alleviate toxicities of trace metals through site-specific competition (as incorporated in the biotic ligand model, BLM). Short-term experiments were conducted with cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) seedlings in simple nutrient solutions to examine the alleviation of Cu and Pb toxicities by Al, Ca, H, Mg, and Na. For Cu, the cations depolarized the plasma membrane (PM) and reduced the negativity of ψ(0)(o) (electrical potential at the outer surface of the PM) and thereby decreased {Cu(2+)}(0)(o) (activity of Cu(2+) at the outer surface of the PM). For Pb, root elongation was generally better correlated to the activity of Pb(2+) in the bulk solution than to {Pb(2+)}(0)(o). However, we propose that the addition of cations resulted in a decrease in {Pb(2+)}(0)(o) but a simultaneous increase in the rate of Pb uptake (due to an increase in the negativity of E(m,surf), the difference in potential between the inner and outer surfaces of the PM) thus offsetting the decrease in {Pb(2+)}(0)(o). In addition, Ca was found to alleviate Pb toxicity through a specific effect. Although our data do not preclude site-specific competition (as incorporated in the BLM), we suggest that electrostatic effects have an important role.
Differentiation between Impacted and Unimpacted Microbial Communities of a Nitrogen Contaminated Aquifer
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-10-2022
DOI: 10.3390/ENVIRONMENTS9100128
Abstract: Nitrogen contamination is ubiquitous across the globe as a result of this, the need to understand and predict the extent and effects of nitrogen contamination on microbial ecosystems is increasingly important. This paper utilises a dataset that provides a rare opportunity to observe varying contamination conditions in a single aquifer and understand the differences between potential background bores and two different types of contamination spread across the other bores. Using physicochemical and microbiological community analysis, this paper aims to determine the impacts of the two contaminants, nitrate and ammonia, on the microbial communities and the differences between polluted and physicochemical background bores. Total nitrogen (N) varied by a factor of over 2000 between bores, ranging from 0.07 to 155 mg L−1. Nitrate (NO3−) concentrations ranged from 150 to .01 mg L−1 ammonium (NH4+) concentrations ranged from 26 to .1 mg L−1. MANOVA analysis confirmed an overall significant relationship (p = 0.0052) between N variables and the physicochemical data (or status) of the three areas of contamination dubbed ‘contamination zones’. The contamination zones were defined by no known presence of contamination in the uncontaminated bores, the presence of NO3− contamination and the presence of NO3− and NH4+ contamination. PERMANOVA analysis confirmed that there was an overall significant difference in the microbial communities between the three contamination zones (p = 0.0002) however, the presence of NH4+ had a significant effect (p = 0.0012). In general, the nitrate-contaminated bores showed a decrease in the abundance of in idual OTUs. We further confirmed that NH4+ contamination had a significant relationship with an increased percentage of abundance occupied by the Planctomycetota phylum (specifically the Candidatus Brocadia genus). It was found that one of the two background bores (BS-004) was likely also representative of natural microbial background, and another (BS-002) showed characteristics that may be representative of past or intermittent contamination. This paper demonstrates a possible way to determine the microbial background and discusses the potential uses for this information.
Soil Explorer: Victorian Background Soil Database
Publisher: RMIT University
Date: 2020
Evaluation of environmental and anthropogenic influences on ambient background metal and metalloid concentrations in soil
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2017.12.131
Abstract: There has been a global shift in environmental risk assessment towards quantifying ambient background concentrations of metals/metalloids in soil. Whilst bedrock has been shown to be a key driver of metal/metalloid variability in soil, few researchers have assessed controls of ambient background concentrations in soils of similar bedrock. A soil survey was undertaken ofGreater Melbourne, Greater Geelong, Ballarat and Mitchell in Victoria, Australia for elements of potential environmental concern: As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Hg, Pb and Zn. S les (n=622) were collected from surface (0 to 0.1m) and sub-surface (0.3 to 0.6m) soils, overlying Tertiary-Quaternary basalt, Tertiary sediments and Silurian siltstone and sandstone. In addition, background soil data from open-source environmental assessment reports (n=5512) were collated to support the understanding of natural enrichment, particularly at depths >0.6m. Factor analysis, supported by correlation analysis and auxiliary geo-spatial data, provided an improved understanding of where and how background metal/metalloid enrichment occurs in the environment. Weathering during paleoclimates was the predominant influence of background metal/metalloid variability in soils overlying similar bedrock. Other key influences of metal/metalloid variability in soil included hydraulic leaching of alkali elements, biological cycling, topography and alluvial transfer of silt and sand from mineralised regions. In addition, urbanisation positively correlated with Pb and Zn concentrations in surface soils suggesting that anthropogenic activities may have resulted in diffuse Pb and Zn contamination of urban soil.
Probing the effects of light and temperature on diurnal rhythms of phytosiderophore release in wheat
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-8137.2007.01990.X
Abstract: * The existing literature is ambiguous as to whether the diurnal pulse in phytosiderophore (PS) release in the Poaceae is mediated by light or temperature, or both. * Here, wheat (Triticum aestivum cv. Yecora Rojo) seedlings were grown in Fe-sufficient (pFe = 16.5) and Fe-deficient (pFe = 17.8) chelator-buffered nutrient solutions. Six different light/temperature regimes were tested over 8 d in paired growth chambers. * Phytosiderophore release patterns under a square-wave light regime were similar, irrespective of whether temperature was varied diurnally or held constant, but PS release was negligible when the light was removed. Release patterns of PS for Fe-deficient and Fe-sufficient plants grown under the square-wave vs r ed light and temperature regimes were similar in the corresponding Fe treatments. * Our results strongly support the notion that the diurnal pulse in PS release in the Poaceae is mainly mediated by changes in light rather than temperature. Our comparison of square-wave with more natural r ed light/temperature regimes suggests that the diurnal response patterns of PS release in wheat can be confidently studied using traditional square-wave regimes, and this is likely to be the case with other Poaceae as well.
Impacts of standard and 'low environmental impact' greywater irrigation on soil and plant nutrients and ecology
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2013
Examining the integrity of soil metal bioavailability assays in the presence of organic amendments to metal-spiked soils
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-01-2012
Critical evaluation of three indirect assays for quantifying phytosiderophores released by the roots of Poaceae
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-11-2007
Effect of seed treatment on the emergence of Cassia brewsteri and Lysiphyllum carronii seeds stored in soil
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1071/RJ07004
Abstract: Dormancy-breaking treatments are applied to seeds of many Australian species used for mine-site restoration in arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. Once seeds are sown, several months may pass before a rain event sufficient for germination. Therefore, it is important that treated seeds are able to survive in soil until conditions are hospitable for germination and growth. However, little is known about the effects of seed dormancy-breaking treatments on the longevity of seeds in soil. Two species that are potential candidates for use in mine site restoration programs in Queensland were trialed viz., Cassia brewsteri (F.Muell.) Benth and Lysiphyllum carronii (F.Muell.) Pedley. Untreated, boiled and acid treated seeds of the two species were sown in soil in a glasshouse. Seeds were watered immediately or kept dry for one or three months before watering and emergence was assessed. When applied to seeds incubated on filter paper in a germination cabinet, boiling and acid treatments were effective methods of breaking dormancy and increasing germination for both C. brewsteri and L. carronii seeds. However, in soil, seedling emergence from boiled seeds was the same or less than that of untreated seeds. Storage time in soil before watering had little effect on seedling emergence in the glasshouse, suggesting that most decreases in emergence compared with laboratory germination occurred after the input of water to the system. Treatments that promote germination in the laboratory can reduce seedling emergence in soil. Thus, treated seeds should be tested for survival in soil before use in mine-site restoration programs.
Probing the plant growth-promoting and heavy metal tolerance characteristics of Bradyrhizobium japonicum CB1809
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2014
The effects of vehicular emissions on the activity and diversity of the roadside soil microbial community
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2021
Industrial past, urban future: Using palaeo-studies to determine the industrial legacy of the Barwon Estuary, Victoria, Australia
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1071/MF15344
Abstract: Around the globe, heavy industry has often been associated with estuaries, which provide water for operations, waste disposal and navigation. Many of these practices leave a legacy of contamination, which accumulate in the estuaries, which act as sediment sinks. Heavy metal contaminants may remain buried, even after the industrial practices are ceased. The Connewarre Complex is a series of wetlands, within the Port Philip and Bellarine Ramsar site. Through a unique combination of techniques, including diatom assemblages, biogeochemistry (δ13C, δ15N, C/N) and heavy metal content, the major anthropogenic influences over the last 170 years and the biotic response has been determined. Key features that can be elucidated include regulation of the waterways, establishment of heavy industry and major shifts in climatic conditions. In combination, these drivers have acted to rapidly shift the condition of the wetland from early in settlement such that the perceived ‘natural ecological character’ is actually an artificial one. The legacy of contamination is common to many Ramsar-listed wetlands. The lesson from this site is that, when making plans to manage the ecological condition of a wetland, past use needs to be considered to ensure that well meaning interventions do not exacerbate risk of mobilising contaminants best left undisturbed.
Evaluation of soil metal bioavailability estimates using two plant species (L. perenne and T. aestivum) grown in a range of agricultural soils treated with biosolids and metal salts
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2011.03.004
Abstract: Few studies have quantified the accuracy of soil metal bioavailability assays using large datasets. A meta-analysis from experiments spanning 6 months to 13 years on 12 soil types, compared bioavailability estimate efficiencies for wheat and ryegrass. Treatments included biosolids ± metals, comparing total metal, Ca(NO₃)₂, EDTA, soil solution, DGT and free ion activity. The best correlations between soil metal bioavailability and shoot concentrations were for Ni using Ca(NO₃)₂ (r² = 0.72) which also provided the best estimate of Zn bioavailability (r² = 0.64). DGT provided the best estimate of Cd bioavailability, accounting for 49% of shoot Cd concentrations. There was no reliable descriptor of Cu bioavailability, with less than 35% of shoot Cu concentrations defined. Thus interpretation of data obtained from many soil metal bioavailability assays is unreliable and probably flawed, and there is little justification to look beyond Ca(NO₃)₂ for Ni and Zn, and DGT for Cd.
Separating multiple, short‐term, deleterious effects of saline solutions on the growth of cowpea seedlings
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-11-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-8137.2010.03551.X
Abstract: • Reductions in plant growth as a result of salinity are of global importance in natural and agricultural landscapes. • Short-term (48-h) solution culture experiments studied 404 treatments with seedlings of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata cv Caloona) to examine the multiple deleterious effects of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na) or potassium (K). • Growth was poorly related to the ion activities in the bulk solution, but was closely related to the calculated activities at the outer surface of the plasma membrane, {I(z)}₀°. The addition of Mg, Na or K may induce Ca deficiency in roots by driving {Ca²+}₀° to Mg²+ > Na+ > K+. The addition of K and, to a lesser extent, Ca alleviated the toxic effects of Na. Thus, Ca is essential but may also be intoxicating or ameliorative. • The data demonstrate that the short-term growth of cowpea seedlings in saline solutions may be limited by Ca deficiency, osmotic effects and specific ion toxicities, and K and Ca alleviate Na toxicity. A multiple regression model related root growth to osmolarity and {I(z)}₀° (R²=0.924), allowing the quantification of their effects.
Soil Explorer: Victorian Background Soil Database
Publisher: RMIT University
Date: 2020
Inter-regional variability in environmental availability of fungicide derived copper in vineyard soils: An Australian case study
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 15-12-2010
DOI: 10.1021/JF9030647
Abstract: This study determined the environmental availability of copper (Cu) in Australian vineyard soils contaminated with fungicide derived Cu residues, and investigated the soil characteristics correlated with differences in Cu availability between regions. Concentrations of 0.01 M calcium chloride extractable Cu, measured in surface soils collected from 98 vineyards in 10 different grape-growing regions of Australia, ranged from <0.1 to 0.94 mg/kg and accounted for 0.10-1.03% of the total Cu concentrations in the soils. Differences in the calcium chloride extractable Cu concentrations were related to the total Cu concentration and soil properties, including pH, clay, exchangeable K, silt, and calcium carbonate. The information generated from this study may prove useful in devising strategies to reduce the availability and toxicity of Cu in agricultural soils.
Environmental fate of fungicides in surface waters of a horticultural-production catchment in Southeastern Australia
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-10-2012
DOI: 10.1007/S00244-011-9710-Y
Abstract: Fungicides are regularly applied in horticultural production systems and may migrate off-site, potentially posing an ecological risk to surface waterways. However, few studies have investigated the fate of fungicides in horticultural catchments. This study investigated the presence of 24 fungicides at 18 sites during a 5-month period within a horticultural catchment in southeastern Australia. Seventeen of the 24 fungicides were detected in the waterways, with fungicides detected in 63% of spot water s les, 44% of surface sediment s les, and 44% of the passive s ler systems deployed. One third of the water s les contained residues of two or more fungicides. Myclobutanil, trifloxystrobin, pyrimethanil, difenoconazole, and metalaxyl were the fungicides most frequently detected, being present in 16-38% of the spot water s les. Iprodione, myclobutanil, pyrimethanil, cyproconazole, trifloxystrobin, and fenarimol were found at the highest concentrations in the water s les (> 0.2 μg/l). Relatively high concentrations of myclobutanil and pyrimethanil (≥ 120 μg/kg dry weight) were detected in the sediment s les. Generally the concentrations of the fungicides detected were several orders of magnitude lower than reported ecotoxicological effect values, suggesting that concentrations of in idual fungicides in the catchment were unlikely to pose an ecological risk. However, there is little information on the effects of fungicides, especially fungi and microbes, on aquatic ecosystems. There is also little known about the combined effects of simultaneous low-level exposure of multiple fungicides to aquatic organisms. Further research is required to adequately assess the risk of fungicides in aquatic environments.
Hyperaccumulators and herbivores-A Bayesian meta-analysis of feeding choice trials
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-02-2009
DOI: 10.1007/S10886-009-9607-7
Abstract: The leading hypothesis for the evolution of the metal hyperaccumulation trait in plants is as a defense against herbivores. A central piece of evidence expected for this hypothesis is that plants benefit from herbivores being deterred from eating high metal tissues. While many studies have investigated whether or not herbivores are deterred by high metal feeds, there has been no quantitative synthesis of these studies. We performed a Bayesian meta-analysis of 31 feeding choice trials from ten published studies, where invertebrates were offered diets of plant tissue from hyperaccumulating species with high and low metal concentrations. Results of in idual trials ranged from distinct preference to distinct aversion for high metal diets. The overall mean effect was for herbivore aversion to high metal diets, whether we used fixed or random effects. However, random effect models were better supported than fixed effect models, indicating there was much real variation between trials. This variation could be attributed partly to each of herbivores, plants, studies, and metals, with herbivores being the greatest source of variation. On average, high metal diets deterred insects but not gastropods, which is supported by other research of metal tolerance and sequestration by gastropods. This suggests that the evolution of hyperaccumulation may have differing selective pressures depending upon the suite of herbivores the plants are naturally exposed to. Future studies should give greater consideration to the selection of herbivores and plants tested.
Responses of four Australian tree species to toxic concentrations of copper in solution culture
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-2006
The effects of temperature and salinity on Acacia harpophylla (brigalow) (Mimosaceae) germination
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2006
DOI: 10.1071/RJ06027
Abstract: Acacia harpophylla F. Muell. (brigalow) used to naturally occur over a range of about 50 000 km2 in Queensland and New South Wales, Australia. Large scale clearing for agriculture has reduced the area to less than 20 000 km2 and it is estimated that 20–25% of vertebrate fauna living in brigalow communities will become locally extinct as a result of the current clearing induced loss of habitat. Some coal mining companies in central Queensland have become interested in providing habitat for the endangered bridle nail-tailed wallaby that lives in brigalow vegetation. However, there is little known about establishment techniques for brigalow on mine sites and other disturbed ground an understanding of brigalow biology and ecology is required to assist in the conservation of this threatened vegetation community and for re-creation of bridled nail-tail wallaby habitat in the post mining landscape. Brigalow is an unusual species of Acacia because it is not hard-seeded and germinates readily without the need to break seed-coat imposed dormancy. Germination trials were undertaken to test the ability of brigalow seed to germinate with a range of temperatures and salinity levels similar to those experienced in coal mine spoil. Optimum germination was found to occur at temperatures from 15 to 38°C and no germination was recorded at 45°C. Brigalow was very tolerant of high salt levels and germinated at percentages greater than 50% up to the highest salinity tested, 30 dS/m. Germination of greater than 90% occurred up to an electrical conductivity of 20 dS/m. The results indicate brigalow seed can be sown in summer when rains are most likely to occur, however, shading of the seed with extra soil or mulch may ensure the ground surface does not become too hot for germination. Because of its ability to germinate at high salinity levels, brigalow may be suitable for use in saline mine wastes which are common on sites to be rehabilitated after mining.
Environmental and anthropogenic influences on ambient background concentrations of fluoride in soil
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2018.07.083
Abstract: Excess exposure to fluoride causes substantive health burden in humans and livestock globally. However, few studies have assessed the distribution and controls of variability of ambient background concentrations of fluoride in soil. Ambient background concentrations of fluoride in soil were collated for Greater Melbourne, Greater Geelong, Ballarat and Mitchell in Victoria, Australia (n = 1005). Correlation analysis and machine learning techniques were used to identify environmental and anthropogenic influences of fluoride variability in soil. Sub-soils (>0.3 m deep), in some areas overlying siltstone and sandstone, and to a lesser extent, overlying basalt, were naturally enriched with fluoride at concentrations above ecological thresholds for grazing animals. Soil fluoride enrichment was predominantly influenced by parent material (mineralogy), precipitation (illuviation), leaching during palaeoclimates and marine inputs. Industrial air pollution did not significantly influence ambient background concentrations of fluoride at a regional scale. However, agricultural practices (potentially the use of phosphate fertilisers) were indicated to have resulted in added fluoride to surface soils overlying sediments. Geospatial variables alone were not sufficient to accurately model ambient background soil fluoride concentrations. A multiple regression model based on soil chemistry and parent material was shown to accurately predict ambient background fluoride concentrations in soils and support assessment of fluoride enrichment in the environment.
Metal complexation by phytosiderophores in the rhizosphere
Publisher: Elsevier
Date: 2005
Environmental Risks of Fungicides Used in Horticultural Production Systems
Publisher: InTech
Date: 14-12-2010
DOI: 10.5772/13032
Preliminary investigation of effects of copper on a terrestrial population of the antarctic rotifer Philodina sp.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2022.134413
Abstract: Terrestrial microinvertebrates in Antarctica are potentially exposed to contaminants due to the concentration of human activity on ice-free areas of the continent. As such, knowledge of the response of Antarctic microinvertebrates to contaminants is important to determine the extent of anthropogenic impacts. Antarctic Philodina sp. were extracted from soils and mosses at Casey station, East Antarctica and exposed to aqueous Cu for 96 h. The Philodina sp. was sensitive to excess Cu, with concentrations of 36 μg L
Potassium Source and Biofertilizer Influence K Release and Fruit Yield of Mango (Mangifera indica L.): A Three-Year Field Study in Sandy Soils
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 08-08-2022
DOI: 10.3390/SU14159766
Abstract: Arid degraded soils have a coarse texture and poor organic matter content, which reduces the activity of microorganisms and soil enzymes, and thus the soil quality, plant yield and quality decrease. Potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) have been suggested to increase the activity of soil enzymes and increase the release of potassium from natural K-feldspar in the arid degraded soil, and thus potentially reduce the rates of the application of chemical fertilizers. Field studies were conducted for three successive growing seasons in an organic farming system to investigate the effects of K-feldspar and KSB (Bacillus cereus) on K release, soil fertility, and fruit yield of mango plants (Mangifera indica L.). The maximum growth of mango plants was found in the treatments inoculated with KSB. KSB increased soil available N, P, K, and the activity of dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase enzymes by 10, 7, 18, 54, and 52%, respectively. KSB increased the fruit yield of mango by 23, 27, and 23% in the first, second, and third growing seasons, respectively. The partial (up to 50%) substitution of chemical K-fertilizer with K-feldspar gave fruit yield and quality very close to that fertilized with the full chemical K-fertilizer. The release rate of K (over all the treatments) varied between 0.18 and 0.64 mg kg−1 of soil per day. KSB significantly increased the K release rate. The application of chemical K-fertilizer gave the highest K release, while substitution with K-feldspar reduced the release of K. Natural K-feldspar contains 8.2% K but is poorly soluble when applied alone. KSB increased the soil quality parameters and enhanced the growth and quality of mango fruit. The fruit yield of mango, under KSB inoculation and fertilization with different K sources, ranged between 9.14 to 17.14 t ha−1. The replacement of 50% of chemical K-fertilizer with natural K-feldspar caused a decrease in the fruit yield by 17, 8, and 2.7% in the first, second, and third years, respectively. The substitution of chemical K-fertilizer with K-feldspar up to 50% with KSB is a good strategy to reduce the excessive use of chemical K-fertilizer. B. cereus and natural K-feldspar have the potential to improve soil health and mango plant productivity in low fertile arid soils.
A screen of some native Australian flora and exotic agricultural species for their potential application in cyanide-induced phytoextraction of gold
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2007
Quantifying factors related to urban metal contamination in vegetable garden soils of the west and north of Melbourne, Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2019.04.031
Abstract: Vegetable gardens in cities provide communities with fresh vegetables but also may contribute towards public exposure to metals present in soil from historical pollution. Contamination of some Melbourne garden soils with Pb (range 12.9-773 mg kg
Horticultural use of copper-based fungicides has not increased copper concentrations in sediments in the mid- and upper yarra valley
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-11-2013
The effects of copper hydroxide, captan and trifloxystrobin fungicides on soil phosphomonoesterase and urease activity topical collection on remediation of site contamination
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-11-2013
The guard cell ionome: Understanding the role of ions in guard cell functions
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.PBIOMOLBIO.2018.11.007
Abstract: The ionome is critical for plant growth, productivity, defense, and it eventually affects human food quantity and quality. Located on the leaf surface, stomatal guard cells are critical gatekeepers for water, gas, and pathogens. Insights form ionomics (metallomics) is imperative as we enter an omics-driven systems biology era where an understanding of guard cell function and physiology is advanced through efforts in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. While the roles of major cations (K, Ca) and anions (Cl) are well known in guard cell function, the related physiology, movement and regulation of trace elements, metal ions, and heavy metals are poorly understood. The majority of the information on the role of trace elements in guard cells emanates from classical feeding experiments, field or in vitro fortification, micropropagation, and microscopy studies, while novel insights are available from limited metal ion transporter and ion channel studies. Given the rejuvenated and recent interest in the constantly changing ionome in plant mineral balance and eventually in human nutrition and health, we looked into the far from established guard cell ionome in lieu of the modern omics era of high throughput research endeavors. Newer technologies and tools i.e., high resolution mass spectrometry, advanced imaging, and phenomics are now available to delve into the guard cell ionomes. In this review, research efforts on guard cell ionomes were collated and categorized, and we highlight the underlying role of the largely unknown ionome in guard cell function towards a systems physiology understanding of plant health and productivity.
A Preliminary Assessment of As and F Uptake by Plants Growing on Uncontaminated Soils
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-2021
Using Phosphorus-Rich Biochars to Remediate Lead-Contaminated Soil: Influence on Soil Enzymes and Extractable P
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 25-03-2020
Abstract: In recent times, there has been increased focus on a holistic approach to soil remediation with consideration of social, economic and environmental factors. Consequently, there is a demand from practitioners and regulators alike for suitable ways to measure ancillary outcomes, for ex le, effects on soil quality. Here we show that biochar, when applied to land to remediate lead (Pb)-contaminated soils, can lead to environmental improvements not realized by adding mined or manufactured phosphates. Here, we study a Pb-contaminated soil amended with two phosphate fertilizers (slow- and fast-release) and with biochars produced from poultry litter and from biosolids at three temperatures (300 °C, 400 °C and 500 °C). The results show that, unlike the fast-release P fertilizer, biochars did not result in an increase in the amount of leachable P that could be released into the environment. Biochars prepared at 500 °C presented a higher value of the integrative geometric mean of soil enzyme activity, compared to the P fertilizers. Overall, our research shows that biochars, particularly those prepared at the higher temperature tested, are a suitable alternative to P fertilizers as an integrative remediation strategy in Pb-contaminated soils, enabling soil biological restoration.
Production of the forage halophyte Atriplex amnicola in metal‐contaminated soils
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-08-2016
DOI: 10.1111/SUM.12275
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