Metal accumulation and physiological response of the lichens transplanted near a landfill in central Lithuania

Abstract

Landfilling is the most widely used method for disposal of municipal waste. The waste disposal sites are a matter of concern due to their adverse effects on the environment and health. Lichen Evernia prunastri and Ramalina farinacea were used for biomonitoring the effect of air pollution around the largest municipal landfill in Lithuania. Lichen transplants were exposed for 3.5 months up to 400 m from the landfill. Accumulation of heavy metals, except Cd, did not showed relevant differences in samples between landfill and control. Potential quantum yield expressed as FV/FM in thalli was affected at the closest to the pollution source sites and the values were lower in comparison with the control. The conductivity of leachate and peroxidated membrane lipids (TBARS) increased in lichen material transplanted at sites facing the landfill