Levels of trace elements in wetland waters and possible risk for plants: a case study of the Palo Laziale wood (central Italy)

The Palo Laziale wood represents one of the few remaining examples of Mediterranean wetland and it was identified as a Site of Community Importance (SCI) according to the European Commission Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC). This paper reports levels of trace elements in wetland waters and possible risk for plants. Eight water points were sampled from private wells and analysed to investigate the distribution and enrichment of heavy metals in groundwater. In particular, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As and Pb were analysed during four sampling events (from October 2010 to July 2011). The results obtained show similar temporal variation of elements. Mn, Cu, Zn and As show major values during December, while Fe present major value during March. Pb concentration shows a peak during March, probably due a failure in water pipes.