Bioindication of heavy metals using bryophyte communities in the Songtao manganese carbonate ore region, China

Abstract

Mining and mineral processing are often associated with heavy metal pollution. To reflect the environmental conditions of manganese carbonate ore deposits and of the area surrounding an electrolytic manganese plant, we analyzed the composition and species diversity of bryophyte communities and determined the differences in bryophyte communities related to the content of heavy metals in the substrate. We found that Pottiaceae and Bryaceae were the dominant families in the study area. The species abundance index of bryophyte communities at different locations was in order: vicinity of the mine > mine site > herb-shrubland > electrolytic plant > electrolytic waste dump. The species diversity of bryophyte communities at different locations was in order: herb-shrubland > vicinity of the mine > electrolytic waste dump > mine site > electrolytic plant. Significant differences between heavy metal contents of the substrate were found among the different locations with the exception of Co (p < 0.05). Mn contents were significantly different at each location (p < 0.05). CCA showed that Mn, Cd, Hg, and Pb content in the substrate were the major factors affecting the characteristics of the bryophyte communities. From the combination of CCA with the correlation heat map, it can be inferred that Hg, Mn, and Cu all have an adverse effect on bryophyte communities in the vicinity of the mine and in the herb-shrubland. Thus the determination of the characteristics of bryophyte communities allows ready identification of the impact of heavy metals on the environment, in turn providing a mechanism for decision-making in terms of pollution management and biodiversity protection.

Advancement of bryophytes from traditional uses to pharmaceutical applications: A review

“…The literature has reviewed the mechanisms of metal uptake, retention, toxicity, and tolerance in bryophytes, highlighting their potential for biomonitoring heavy metal pollution (Tyler,1990). Furthermore, the uptake of heavy metals by bryophytes in specific environmental settings, such as manganese carbonate slag fields and mining regions, has been investigated, providing valuable insights into the potential use of bryophytes for the bioremediation of polluted lands (Lu et al, 2021;He et al, 2021). The ecological significance of bryophytes for carbon sequestration and heavy metal uptake has been further underscored by their interactions with other plants, and their responses to environmental factors.…”

Mineralogy and Metallogenesis of the Sanbao Mn–Ag (Zn-Pb) Deposit in the Laojunshan Ore District, SE Yunnan Province, China

“…Manganite is formed in conditions of insufficient oxidation [35]. Additionally, cluster crystal manganite is often associated with barite and calcite in a low-temperature vein [36,37]. Some calcite accreted with manganite was found in the Sanbao Mn-Ag deposit.…”