Abstract
The aim of this research was to evaluate the impact of heavy metals on Maradol papaya cultivation soil, through the geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and the ecological potential risk index (RI). Soil samples from 15 locations in the Cotaxtla municipality of Veracruz, Mexico were tested for pH, soil texture, and concentrations of lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and organic matter (MO). The pH varied between values of 5.5 ± 0.10 and 7.7 ± 0.22, while the MO varied from 1.57% ± 0.97% to 13.1% ± 1.342%. The type of soil texture represented 48% sandy loam, 40% loam, 8% clay loam, and 4% silt-loam. For heavy metals, average levels were found in the following order Cr (0.695 ± 0.018) > Zn (0.615 ± 0.016) > Pb (0.323 ± 0.012) > Cu (0.983 ± 0.011) > Cd (0.196 ± 0.011) mg kg−1. The Igeo values from 96% of the analyzed sampling points were below zero and were considered uncontaminated. The other 4% of samples, from the Potrerillo1 (PT) site, had Igeo values of 1.13, where the highest concentration of Cd was found, which indicates moderate contamination levels. The RI index at the PT site was in the category of moderate contamination, and the rest of the points correspond to the category of low pollution.
Highlights
IntroductionThe distribution dynamics followed by heavy metals in soil can reach groundwater by leaching, and by runoff reach surface waters
Heavy metals are currently the pollutants of greatest concern because they are highly toxic at low concentrations and can bioaccumulate and enter the food chain [1,2].The distribution dynamics followed by heavy metals in soil can reach groundwater by leaching, and by runoff reach surface waters
This study evaluated the concentration of heavy metals Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, and Zn in the papaya cultivation soils of this important export zone, and its relationship with soil characteristics, such as pH, organic matter, and textural soil type
Summary
The distribution dynamics followed by heavy metals in soil can reach groundwater by leaching, and by runoff reach surface waters. These chemical compounds, in addition to being retained in the soil, interact with solutions present in the environment [3]. Metals are found in different forms of oxidation, such as inorganic compounds, metal complexes, and organometallic compounds. When these metal compounds dissolve in water, they dissociate into ions and tend to behave like cations; they become part of the exchange complex and are available for absorption in plants, by displacing the essential cations [5]
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