Arsenic biomonitoring using a hyperaccumulator fern (Pteris vittata)

Abstract

Samples of Pteris vittata L. (brake fern or ladder brake) collected in Genova and in areas outside urban centres, have been analysed for arsenic content in order to assess if hyperaccumulating plants are suitable for monitoring purposes. Hyperaccumulation ability of the Ligurian fern populations was evaluated by analysing specimens grown with hydroponic media added with As(V). Arsenic concentrations in the range 2–310 µg g⁻¹ dry weight have been measured in samples collected in different sites along the Ligurian coast. Arsenic concentrations in fern fronds correlate with the estimated arsenic emission in the area, verifying the applicability of P. vittata as an arsenic biomonitor.