Species of Peltula (lichenized Ascomycota) are shown to tolerate rock substrate rich in natural γ-radiation in NE Brazil

Author:
Buril M.L.L., de Oliveira Silva A.K., Martins M.C.B., Silva H.P.B., Aptroot A., da Silva B.F. & Pereira E.C.
Year:
2024
Journal:
Total Environment Advances
Pages:
10: 200099 [9 p.]
Url:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.teadva.2024.200099
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Pedra Municipality in Pernambuco State (Northeastern Brazil) is known for encompassing areas with high natural radiation from 238U sources, contaminating soil, atmosphere, water, vegetation, and animals, including rural activities. A lichen survey was performed in the area, and species belonging to 19 genera were identified. The diversity is considered very low when compared to nearby municipalities and other similar regions, which might indicate the effect of radiation on the environment. The lichen genus viz. Peltula seems uranium-resistant since its three species: Peltula obscurans (Nyl.) Gyeln., Peltula euploca (Ach.) Poelt and Peltula impressa (Vain.) Swinscow & Krog were the only ones found on rocks rich in this radionuclide. In this study, we show the first report of the occurrence of different Peltula species on anomalous rocks rich in natural radionuclides. In addition, it is the first official reference of P. obscurans and P. impressa to Pernambuco state. The confirmation of the preference of Peltula for substrata radionuclides-rich can indicate this genus as a radioactivity bioindicator. Keywords: Uranium; Pernambuco; Radionuclide; Bioaccumulation; Anomalous rocks.
Id:
36391
Submitter:
zpalice
Post_time:
Wednesday, 03 April 2024 10:34