Uptake of uranium, molybdenum, copper, and selenium by the radish from uranium-rich soils

Radishes were grown in the naturally occurring uranium-containing soils found in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia. The movement of uranium, molybdenum, copper, and selenium from the soil to the roots and the above-ground plant was investigated. Bioaccumulation was not observed for uranium, copper, and with some exceptions, selenium. Molybdenum bioaccumulates readily in the radish. Uranium and molybdenum uptake appears to be pH-dependent in this plant. Radish roots can be a significant source of uranium and molybdenum. Ingestion of radishes from these soils could easily surpass the maximum daily intake levels of uranium set by the Canadian government. Other crops and possible sources of uranium exposure around these deposits should be investigated.