Abstract
The aim of this study is to identify geochemical features of microelement accumulation in vegetation using creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.) as an example and to assess its bioindicator potential in contrasting natural and anthropogenic environments. The main idea of the study is a comparative analysis of the microelement composition of plants growing in the urban area of Poznan (Poland) and in the predominantly natural ecosystem of Bayanaul National Nature Park (Kazakhstan) to determine the role of natural and anthropogenic factors in shaping the elemental profile of vegetation. The research methodology is based on X-ray fluorescence spectral analysis of thyme's aboveground parts, allowing for the determination of macro-, micro-, and trace element contents with high accuracy and reproducibility. Sampling was carried out during the active growing season, taking into account the homogeneity of the phytocenoses and the environmental conditions of the habitats.As a result, significant regional differences in the microelement composition of plants were identified. Samples from the Bayanaul National Nature Park showed elevated concentrations of most elements, due to the natural geochemical properties of the soils and landscapes. In the urban environment of Poznań, signs of anthropogenic impact were detected, manifested by changes in the elemental composition of plants.The obtained results confirm the high sensitivity of Thymus serpyllum L. to environmental conditions and substantiate its potential use as an effective bioindicator. The study's value lies in the development of a reference background microelement profile for natural ecosystems and the expansion of the scientific foundations for biogeochemical monitoring and environmental assessment of territories.
01 Introduction
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02 References
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