Copper and Lead Bioaccumulation by Acacia retinoides and Eucalyptus torquata in Sites Contaminated as a Consequence of Extensive Ancient Mining Activities in Cyprus

摘要

Aspects of the industrial archaeology of the northwestern part of the island of Cyprus are outlined. Wastes resultant from copper mining activities of approximately two millennia ago continue to exert an important influence on organisms. Detailed chemical analysis of two tree species growing on archaeologi- cally important metalliferous spoil tips has indicated their ability to bioaccumulate heavy metals and sulfur primarily from the substratum; the bioaccumulation and biomagnification of lead and sulfur are particularly marked in both Acacia and Euca- lyptus.