Metal resistance of Sorbus gorodkovii Pojark in the impact zone of the “Pechenganickel”

Abstract

The results of influence of industrial pollution on vegetative growth and pollen fertility of Sorbus gorodkovii (Gorodkov,s rowan) in the impact area of the Pechenganickel plant (city of Zapolyarny), are presented. Five experimental sites with S. gorodkovii were laid in the vicinity of processing plant. Leaf measurements (leaf length and the total length of 2 middle leaflets of a compound leaf) were carried out every 7 days in June and July. Samples of S. gorodkovii inflorescences with mature pollen were selected from each experimental site. Studies of pollen fertility were carried out by acetocarmine method. It was found that S. gorodkovii is resistant to chronical pollution of the environment by heavy metals. Leaves growth was significantly inhibited only in the beginning of their ontogenesis. Pollen fertility in the vicinity of the processing plant in the city of Zapolyarny, was high. Obtained data confirms the previous results of some authors that in Subarctic climate and impact of industrial pollution in the Kola Peninsula, trees rapidly adapted to anthropogenic stress and increases resistance to heavy metals.