Trace Elements in Peat Bogs of Tomsk Region (South Siberia, Russia)

Abstract

16 peat bogs of Tomsk region (in Siberia) were used to study trace elements concentrations in ombrotrophic peat. The calculations of concentration coefficient in relation to the sedimentary rocks allowed us to determine some elements which tend to accumulate in ombrotrophic peat of Tomsk region. They are Au, Br, Sr, Ba, Fe, and Cr. For selective trace elements we considered spacial variability of their mean contents in the ombrotrophic peat of Tomsk region. Together with the study of vertical distribution of trace elements in the studied peat bogs we outlined factors influencing their accumulation in peat. Lithological and mineral composition of surrounding territories plays role in the accumulation of Cr, Sc, Br, Au, and lanthanides, climatic conditions and necessity for living plants cause Ca variations. Cr, Sc, lanthanides and U are also actively accumulated in the peat near industrial cities in the south of Tomsk region.