this research aimed to study the ability of both reeds (Phragmites communis) and
poplar trees (Populus nigra) to accumulate Cd and Zn. Where speared naturally prevail on
the sides of the Rumaila River in Jableh town (research site), during 2014-201
5. Average
amount of Cd on studied site was 3.081 ppm dry weight. Compared with the normal range
of soil content from Cd (0.06-1.1 ppm), we found that it is three times the normal upper
limit, indicating site contamination with Cd. The study showed that the Cd concentration in
the reed shoots was 0.031 ppm, while it was up to 0.055 ppm in leaves than that of shoots.
The value of bio-accumulation factor (BF) was 0.014. Also for poplar, the study revealed
predominance of leaves over bark with Cd concentration of 0.034 ppm versus 0.016 ppm
for poplar bark. BF value was 0.02. Regarding average amount of Zn in the soil of studied
site was recorded 116.61 ppm of dry weight. Compared with average range of Zn in
different types of soil (40-100 ppm), we find that it is slightly higher than the normal upper
limit, showing site contamination with Zn. The study stated that the Zn concentration in
reed leaves was 9.05 ppm versus 8.03 in the shoots. BF value was 0.07. Zn concentration
in poplar leaves was the lowest at 5.13 ppm versus 6.07 ppm for the bark. We notice from
these findings that the Zn amount in the parts of poplar plant is approximate. BF value was
0.05. The statistical analysis showed significant superiority of reed to poplar in terms of Cd
accumulation, and the same for Zn.
