Integrated bioindication monitoring of heavy metals in the soil cover of industrial agglomerations: methodological aspects and predictive potential

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive bioindication monitoring system for the accumulation of heavy metals in the soil cover of industrial agglomerations. The developed methodology integrates classical and innovative approaches to the assessment of the ecological state of soils exposed to anthropogenic impact. Based on long-term observations (2018-2023) in three industrial regions of Russia, patterns of spatial distribution and temporal dynamics of concentrations of Pb, Cd, Hg, Zn, Cu and Ni have been identified. It has been established that the application of the bioindication approach makes it possible to increase the accuracy of identifying environmental risk zones by 27.3% compared with traditional methods of chemical and analytical control. The bioindicators Taraxacum officinale and Lumbricus terrestris demonstrated the highest correlation coefficients (r=0.91 and r=0.89, respectively) with the actual concentrations of pollutants. For the first time, a multiparametric model integrating biochemical, morphological and population markers has been developed and tested, which has made it possible to create a predictive tool for assessing the transformation of soil ecosystems with a confidence of 83.7%. The study demonstrates the advantages of an integrated approach to environmental monitoring combining biological, geochemical and geoinformation methods. The results obtained form the basis for improving existing systems for rationing the anthropogenic load on the soil cover and developing adaptive strategies for remediation of contaminated areas under conditions of intense industrial impact.