Lichen Diversity Value and Heavy Metal Concentrations in Mosses Around the Lignite Power Plants ‘Kosova

Abstract

Behxhet et al.: Lichen diversity value and heavy metal concentrations in mosses around the lignite power plants ' Kosova' - Abstract. Lichen and mosses are the most appropriate indicators for monitoring air pollution. To evaluate air quality in the Prishtina region, we determined lichen value diversity (LDV) and heavy metal concentrations in mosses at 20 sites around power plants 'Kosova A and B'. Twenty-three lichen species were recorded in the survey area. The lichen value diversity differed depending on the distance from the source of air pollution. Values ranged from 36.3 to 115.4, with the highest levels recorded in the cleanest area. This value decreased when moving towards the polluted areas. Concentrations of six heavy metals were measured in mosses (Brachythecium rutabulum (Hedw.) Schimp). Different concentrations of heavy metals in mosses were found during the investigation. The hot spots of heavy metals were associated with historical industrial activities, mining activities, and industrial centres. In addition, vehicle emissions near major roads were responsible for the high concentrations of trace elements in mosses in these areas. Zn was found in the highest concentration, and ranged from 56.5-136.6 µg.g -1 .

Lichenized and Lichenicolous Fungi from the Albanian Alps (Kosovo, Montenegro)

“…Many records are provided in Murati (1992, 1993) but without localities. Bejtullahu et al (1983) and Behxhet et al (2013) used lichens for monitoring of air pollution in Mitrovica and Prishtina regions and Di Lella et al (2003a, 2003b, 2004), Loppi et al (2004) and Jia et al (2005) utilized lichens as biomonitors of depleted uranium at selected heavily shelled sites. A catalogue of the lichenized and lichenicolous fungi of Kosovo is completed (Mayrhofer et al 2016).…”