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Seasonality of the spatial distribution of inorganic contaminants in tree crowns

Objective

Seasonality of contaminants as Cod, Zn, Pub and Cu in trees was demonstrated but no consistent seasonal trends were found. The study of seasonal trends is complicated by recent findings; at the end of the growing season a clear trend in Cod concentration was found in the tree crown. In contrast to common practices, the spatial trend in contaminant concentration will be included when investigating the seasonal changes. By this means an adequate sampling strategy is expected to reduce error propagation. Since error propagation was suggested to be one of the reasons explaining the lack of consistent seasonal patterns in contaminants, the analytical results are expected to benefit from the new sampling strategy.
Data processing will focus on internal processes contributing to the seasonal variation in foliage. The effects of growth dilution will be investigated as well as shunting and (re) translocation of the contaminants. The link between seasonality and spatial distribution is innovative in this research field. A focus on the seasonality of heavy metals and radionuclides is also new. Aim of this project is to improve understanding of seasonal changes in spatial distribution of inorganic contaminants in tree leaves and thus to improve the interpretation and methodology of chemical foliar analysis used in for example ICP Forests. A better understanding of the results of this monitoring programme contributes to solving a problem of European dimension I. e. forest decline. The training will be tailor-made to the specific needs of the applicant and the project. The host has expertise in bio monitoring environmental agents, tree nutrition and foliar analysis. By discussing the project results, the applicant will be trained in internal leaf processes and tree functioning.

Call for proposal

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Coordinator

THE FINNISH FOREST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
EU contribution
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Address
54,Kaironiementie 54
39700 PARKANO
Finland

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Total cost
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