Bioaccumulation of trace elements in agricultural crops and soils irrigated by the surface waters of Sebou and Beht rivers

Abstract

Purpose: This study assessed the bioaccumulation of metallic elements in agricultural crops which is irrigated by the surface waters of Beht and Sebou rivers. Method: The study focused on two plants. Seven metal elements (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn) were analyzed by spectrometry emission coupled plasma (ICP). Results: The obtained results showed that the levels of Cd in irrigating water exceed the thresholds set by Moroccan standards. The concentrations of Cd and Cr in soil (0-15, 15-30 cm) are higher than those set by the AFNOR and the contents of Cd, Cr, Cu and Ni in the supports of the plants exceed normal levels which are established by Kabata-Pendias and Mukherjee. Indeed, the high absorption of certain trace elements by the tissues of the plants studied can be associated with the chemical forms of the metal in the soil matrix, the physicochemical characteristics of the soil and the nature of the plant species.Conclusion: The bioaccumulation of identified metallic elements in plants is caused using surface waters of Sebou and Beht rivers as a source of irrigation.