Heavy metal accumulations of Allium cepa L. as a bioindicator for air pollution in Eregli, Turkey

Abstract

Eregli, a province with iron-steel industrial activities, is situated on the coast of Black Sea in Northwestern Anatolia. Heavy metal pollution caused by industrial activities is a threat to environmental quality and human health. Allium cepa L. is a bioindicator due to its sensitivity to environmental pollution. Fe, Hg, Zn, Hg, Cr showed greater accumulation in its leaves in four different sampling points. A significant decrease at Hg and Pb concentrations was not seen in its leaves. This study showed that the leafy plants contaminated with toxic heavy metals during industrial activities and Eregli's air quality has been poor.