Biogeochemical characteristics of natural and technogenic ecosystems of the southern Baikal region

The distribution of chemical elements in plants was studied in natural and technogenic ecosystems of the southern Baikal region. Basic statistical parameters characterizing the contents of a wide range of elements in different soil horizons and plants of the region and the “world land” (average for all the continents) were compared. On the basis of data on the distribution of chemical elements in the soil-plant system, groups of elements differing in the coeffient of biological absorption (Cb) were distinguished. Evidence of antagonism between the main biophilous elements and heavy metals accumulating in plants was obtained. Interrelations of K and Na, which play an important role in the regulation of osmotic processes in plants, were analyzed. The phenomenon of potassium replacement by sodium in plants of technogenic ecosystems may serve as a criterion for assessing the phytotoxicity and environmental quality.