Data on heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Zn) in soil and biota (common nettle and Roman snail) around the power plant TC Kosova A in Obiliq (Kosovo)

Abstract

The heavy metal content of Pb, Zn, and Ni in soil, nettle plants (rhizomes, stems, and leaves), and snail shells was investigated in this study. Samples were collected during the summer-autumn period of 2020 from the vicinity of the TC Kosova A power plant in Obiliq (Prishtina), Kosovo, and compared to samples from the control site, Brezne-Opoja. Soil samples were dried at 105°C for 48 hours and treated with a mixture of 69% HNO3 and HClcc in a 1:3 ratio. Similarly, biota samples were dried at 105°C for 48 hours and treated with a mixture of 69% HNO3 and H2O2cc in a 1:3 ratio. All sample types were digested in the microwave at 200°C for 45 minutes and analyzed using a flame type absorber (Analyticyena Contra AAA). The results indicate significantly higher concentrations of Pb, Ni, and Zn in the Obiliq area compared to Opoja, in both soil and biota (nettle and snail shells), suggesting potential environmental impact from the nearby coal-burning plant, heavy traffic, or other urban services. The average values generally fell below the limits specified by the UK (1989) or Germany (1992) standards (Directive 2008/50/EC). However, the Zn content in all soil samples exceeded the German standard. Pb and Zn were found to be extensively absorbed by nettle plants (U. dioica) and garden snails (H. pomatia), whereas Ni showed no significant bioaccumulation in either species, despite its high concentration in the soil. Nettle plants exhibited heavy bioaccumulation of Pb, reaching levels up to 105.6 mg/kg dw, surpassing the German standard limit. Nettle plants show promise in the phytoremediation and soil amendment processes for heavy metal pollution, particularly for Pb and Zn, but not for Ni. Garden snails can serve as bioindicators for assessing heavy metal pollution and its impact on transfer processes within the food chain, as well as the resulting effects on biochemical and physiological processes in living organisms, specifically in relation to oxidative stress. The contamination of soil and biota with heavy metals in the Obiliq area should be regarded as a significant concern. Therefore, regular monitoring of heavy metal content in agricultural, garden, livestock, and poultry activities is necessary to mitigate the associated health risks to humans.