The potential absorbe of heavy metals from the soil by rangeland species Astragalus globiflorus and Acantholimon hohenackeri (case study: The rangelands around of Firoozkouh cement factory))

    In this study, the potential of rangeland species Astragalus globiflorus and Acantholimon hohenackeri in heavy metals absorption including cadmium, lead, copper, zinc, and chromium was investigated around the Firoozkouh cement factory. Soil and vegetation sampling was performed at distances of 500, 1500, and 2500 meters from the center of the factory. Astragalus globiflorus and Acantholimon hohenackeri with three replications were examined in a completely randomized block design. In this experiment, samples were determined using the acidic digestion method using atomic absorption device. The results indicated that, as the distance from the factory increased, the concentration of cadmium and zinc in Astragalus globiflorus and Acantholimon hohenackeri showed an increasing trend, contrary to the concentration of lead. In addition, a decreasing trend was observed for chromium concentration in Acantholimon hohenackeri. The results of mean comparison showed that the concentration of copper, lead and zinc in Astragalus globiflorus, and the concentration of cadmium and lead in Acantholimon hohenackeri were higher in leaves as compared with roots. According to the results, there was a significant relationship between Astragalus globiflorus and copper, cadmium, lead and chromium, and between Acantholimon hohenackeri and copper, zinc and lead (P <0.05). It can be concluded that the proximity to the factory was the most important factor for the accumulation of lead and chromium in the species studied. In this regard, it is suggested that the above species be used to remediate these elements from contaminated soil. It is also recommended that appropriate measures be taken regarding the use of these species by livestock around the factory.