Statistical models for the accumulation of PAH,chlorinated hydrocarbons and trace metals in epiphytic Hypnum cupressiforme

Concentrations of PAH (1.12-benzoperylene, 3.4-benzopyrene, fluoranthene), chlorinated hydrocarbons (α-BHC, lindane, PCB) and trace metals (Zn, Pb, Cu) in bulk precipitation, as well as PAH and trace metal concentrations in atmospheric dust samples from 14 sites in Bavaria, F.R.G. are presented for two vegetation periods (1979 and 1980). The same substances were also analyzed in epiphytic moss (Hypnum cupressiforme var. filiforme) sampled from tree trunks in October 1979 and 1980. Using mean immission values and the amount of precipitation as predictors and concentrations of pollutants in moss samples as criteria, a number of multiple regression models were computed in order to quantify the relationships between absolute air pollution data and accumulated trace substance values. Beta values of all variables help to determine whether bulk precipitation or atmospheric particulate matter has dominant influence on the uptake of trace substances by mosses. The study shows that epiphytic mosses can be used to monitor both heavy-metal, PAH and chlorinated hydrocarbons.