Seasonal variation of selected trace elements in rare endemic species Thuriferous Juniper growing in the Aurès Mountains of Algeria

Abstract

We used energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) to determine the seasonal variation of selected trace elements (Cr, Mn, Zn, Cu, Se and Fe) and some potential toxic elements (Cd, Pb and Br) in Juniperus thurifera subsp. africana Maire (Cupressaceae) a rare medicinal tree, growing indigenously in Aurès Mountains of Algeria. The precision of the results was assessed by analyzing the certified reference material IPE44 (WEPAL) grass leaves. Results showed J. thurifera was characterized by high Cr and Mn contents. During autumn and winter mineral concentrations were higher in general. The levels of Cr, Se and Mn were higher during autumn and winter than during spring and summer. Zn contents were higher during summer than in other seasons. Cu content did not vary by season. The potential toxic elements in J. thurifera (Pb > Cd > Br) were below the permissible limits recommended by the Joint WHO/FAO guidelines except for Pb in autumn and winter.

Keywords

Aurès / EDXRF technique / Juniperus thurifera / Seasons / Trace elements / Medicinal tree

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