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 language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 105-118 |
Number of pages | 14 |
Journal | Plant and Soil |
Volume | 497 |
Issue number | 1-2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Apr 2024 |
Keywords
- Insitu remediation
- Invertebrates
- Sustainable ecosystem