ZLV Online

Abstract

Input of risk elements to forest ecosystems as a result of anthropogenic pollution can influence the health of these ecosystems. In conditions of the Czech Republic the impact of risk elements is mostly combined with impacts of other stressors like acid rain and eutrofization. However, air deposition of risk elements can influence the withering forest very rapidly. For the assessment of impact of the risk elements pollution to forest ecosystems it is necessary to know the distribution and fate of risk elements in the soil profile. It is also very important to distinguish between geogenic and anthropogenic fraction of the risk elements in profile. Therefore, the article briefly summarizes information concerning the fate and distribution of risk elements in forest soils. The basic groups of substances that are important for risk elements retention, and their negative effects in ecosystems are discussed. The most important methods for detection of anthropogenic fraction risk elements in soil are presented. The overview of the key parameters driving the mobility of risk elements within the soil profile is given. Finally, selected data concerning the content of risk elements in forest soils, both in European countries and the Czech Republic are presented, as a result of several types of soil surveys.