SURVIVAL OF TREES IN A METAL-CONTAMINATED ENVIRONMENT

This study investigates the survival of sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) trees at a metal contaminated site where populations of herbaceous flora are known to have evolved metal tolerance. The incidence of pollution at the site relates to a copper refinery, the existence of which is pre-dated by many trees in the area. High soil levels of Cu, Cd, Zn and Pb were recorded to depths of 40 to 90 cm. Tolerance tests on tree seedlings carried out in soils showed no evidence that the trees produce tolerant offspring. Cell culture growth experiments on explant material from shoot meristems of mature trees did show increased tolerance to Cu, compared with material originating from unpolluted sites. The significance of these findings is discussed in relation to facultative adaptations providing trees with the resilience to withstand pollution impact.