Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

A Method to Preserve Wetland Roots and Rhizospheres for Elemental Imaging
Published on: February 15, 2021
Phytostabilization of amended soils polluted with trace elements using the Mediterranean shrub: Rosmarinus
P Madejón1, P Burgos, F Cabrera
1Instituto de Recursos Naturales y Agrobiología de Sevilla, CSIC, Sevilla, Spain. pmadejon@irnase.csic.es
Abstract:
We evaluate the mid-term effects of two amendments and the establishment of R. officinalis on chemical and biochemical properties in a trace element contaminated soil by a mine spill and the possible use of this plant for stabilization purposes. The experiment was carried out using containers filled with trace element polluted soil, where four treatments were established: organic treatment (biosolid compost, OAR), inorganic treatment (sugar beet lime, IAR), control with plant (NAR) and control without plant (NA). Amendment addition and plant establishment contributed to restore soil chemical (pH, total organic carbon, and water soluble carbon) and biochemical properties (microbial biomass carbon and the enzymatic activities: aryl-sulphatase and protease). The presence of rosemary did not affect soluble (0.01 M CaCl2) Cd and Zn and decreased trace element EDTA extractability in amended soils. There were no negative effects found on plant growth and nutrient content on polluted soils (NAR, OAR, and IAR). Trace element contents were within normal levels in plants. Therefore, rosemary might be a reliable option for successful phytostablization of moderate trace element contaminated soils.
Related Concept Videos
Bioremediation
Microbial Bioremediation of Pesticides
Microbial Leaching
Microbial Bioremediation of Hydrocarbons
Responses to Salt Stress
Microbial Wastewater Treatment
