Appraisal of Berry Tree (Morous alba ) as a Biomonitor of

ABSTRACT: Leaves of berry tree as a biomonitor of air pollution to heavy metals in Esfahan city was studied. Sampling of leaves was performed in four areas with different degrees of pollution (namely Lalleh square, Bozorgmeher square, Darvazeh Shiraz square and Mellat Park, a reference site). Concentrations of heavy metals (Lead, Copper, Zinc, Manganese and Cadmium) were determined using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (PerkinElmer 800). The results showed elevated concentrations of heavy metals along with highest and the lowest values occurred in Lalleh square and the reference sites, respectively. Difference in the heavy metal concentration in the surrounding atmosphere of studied areas could be related to the emissions from automobiles and from anthropogenic activities. The main source of heavy metal contamination in the atmosphere in the city of Esfahan is assumed from motor vehicle traffic intensity. Our investigation also exhibit that the leaves of berry tree acts as a good biomonitoring index for monitoring the heavy metal contamination in a dry region like Esfahan city.