Heavy metals contamination in soils and plants along with the mafic–ultramafic complex (Ophiolites), Baluchistan, Pakistan: Evaluation for the risk and phytoremediation potential

Abstract

Abstract This study investigated the concentrations of heavy metal in soils and plants along with the mafic–ultramafic complex (Ophiolites). Samples were collected along with the mafic–ultramaficcomplex and sedimentary rocks (Zhob and Loralai valleys). Heavy metals including manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and cadmium (Cd) concentrations were assayed in soils and plants using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). Results revealed that soils and plants of the Zhob and Loralai valleys showed multifold higher concentrations of heavy metals than reference or background sites. Heavy metals concentration was evaluated for the and pollution quantification factors. A relatively higher values of contamination factor 38.2 and pollution load index 4.9 were found in Zhob valley. Plants species such as Phoenix dactylifera L. (P. dactylifera) and Calotropis procera L. (C. procera) were found best accumulators for heavy metals. Statistical analyses showed that the geogenic source was mainly responsible for heavy metals contamination. This study recommends P. dactylifera and C. procera as bio-indicators of mineral resources and phytoremediation.