Biogeochemical coefficients as indicators of nutrient element sorption in jerivá (Syagrus romanzoffiana (Chamisso) Glassman), a palm tree species from Brazil

Abstract

The absorption coefficients usually applied to biogeochemical prospection may provide information on the substrate (soil) in natural and contaminated ecosystems, since the chemical composition of the plants tends to reflect the availability of the elements. The biogeochemical coefficients could be a parameter to assess the bioaccumulation potential of a flora species, interactions involving the soil–plant system, and presence or absence of contaminants, such as metals. This study applies the biological absorption coefficient, the temporal absorption coefficient, and the acropetal coefficient as parameters to evaluate the differential absorption in the selected representative species. The Syagrus romanzoffiana (Chamisso) Glassman chosen as a representative species in this study is a palm tree species commonly known in Brazil as “palmeira jeriva” (jeriva palm tree). The representative species is widely used in landscaping and vegetation restoration in urban areas. It shows major regional dispersion and is endemic in South America. The results indicate that jeriva palm tree could be a useful indicator of soil contamination in tropical areas.