Heavy metal concentracions in the soils and vegetation of the Béke-cave watershed (Aggtelek-karst, Hungary)

Research on the karstic soils and vegetation of the Béke-cave watershed in Hungary's Aggtelek National Park revealed distinct patterns of heavy metal mobility. The study found that metals exhibited varying degrees of bioavailability depending on soil texture, with a clear sequence of metal transfer between soil and common plant species such as oak, hornbeam, and corn. By analyzing both total (acid-soluble) and bioavailable metal concentrations, the study established a hierarchy of metal mobility, providing insights into how these elements move through ecosystems in this UNESCO-listed karst region.

Kaszala, R., & Bárány Kevei, I. (2015). Heavy metal concentracions in the soils and vegetation of the Béke-cave watershed (Aggtelek-karst, Hungary). Landscape & Environment, 9(2), 51–58. https://doi.org/10.21120/le/9/2/1