Availability and transfer of non-essential elements in a rehabilitated bauxite residue grassland system

L. Dillon, R. Courtney

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Aims: This study investigated a 7 yr old rehabilitated grassland established on a bauxite residue storage areas(RSA) in order to assess the availability and ecosystem transfer of both nutrient and trace elements, and to determine if defined rehabilitation criteria were sustained. Methods: Rehabilitated residue/soil was sampled over depth (0–10 and 10-20 cm) and season (Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter) and plant growth stage (green vs. senescent) to determine both essential and non-essential element (Ca, Mg, Na, Al and V) content. Invertebrates samples from both decomposer and predator specimens were assessed to determine if foodchain transfer occurred. Results: Residue-soil results showed sustained rehabilitation with pH, EC and ESP all within recommended criteria levels. Further, bioavailable fractions of Al and V remained low. Vegetation analysis revealed seasonal variation for both essential and non-essential elements and highlights the need for wider monitoring parameters. Elemental content in invertebrate samples did not indicate foodchain transfer and results were comparable to a reference site. Conclusion: Results show sustained rehabilitation with low bioavailability of non-essential elements and foodchain transfer.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)105-118
Number of pages14
JournalPlant and Soil
Volume497
Issue number1-2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2024

Keywords

  • Insitu remediation
  • Invertebrates
  • Sustainable ecosystem

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