The Estimation of Heavy Metal Deposition in Kumaon Region by using Moss Biomonitoring Technique

Abstract

Land-based moss has long served as an effective tool for monitoring atmospheric element deposition, yet there remains a paucity of documented cases exploring this phenomenon comprehensively. This research investigates the seasonal variations of heavy metal concentrations, specifically Copper (Cu), Nickel (Ni), and Zinc (Zn), in moss samples collected from catchment sites in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. Mukteshwar sites are designated as controls due to favorable conditions for Plagiomniumundulatum growth, stemming from low population density and minimal atmospheric pollution. Quantitative analysis of metal concentrations utilized Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), offering high sensitivity and precision. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) unraveled patterns and relationships within the dataset, while Hirachial Cluster Analysis (HCA) explored similarities and dissimilarities among study sites. This integrated approach not only quantified metal concentrations but also employed multivariate statistical analyses (PCA and HCA) to interpret complex relationships and variations. Seasonal metal accumulation in P. undulatum follows the order of summer > winter > monsoon in 2021. Remarkably high concentrations of Cu (94.4 µg/g) and Ni (99.6 µg/g) were recorded in Nainital, while Zn peaked in Ranikhet (177.9 µg/g). The heightened metal load across surveyed sites is linked to increased gasoline consumption during the summer, driven by tourist activity. During the monsoon, reduced tourist activity and accelerated biomass growth contribute to a rapid reduction in metal percentages in moss. The study enhances understanding of spatial and seasonal dynamics of heavy metal deposition in the Kumaon region, providing valuable insights for environmental monitoring and management strategies. The findings contribute to the broader understanding of metal sources and patterns, aiding in thedevelopment of targeted mitigation measures for sustainable environmental practices in the region.