Ecological Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals Pollution in Soil and Lotus Seeds in Xiangtan Lotus Planting Area.

In order to study the pollution characteristics and potential ecological risks of heavy metals in soil of Xiangtan lotus planting area, the contents of Mn, Cu, As, Cd, Pb and Cr in soil and lotus seeds were analyzed in six main lotus planting areas. The comprehensive potential ecological risks of heavy metals in soil were evaluated by the potential ecological hazard index. The results showed that Cd concentration ( mean value) was higher than the risk screening value and lower than the risk control value, and other heavy metals were lower or close to the risk screening value. The ecological risks of each element from large to small were Cd, Pb, As, Cu, Cr and Mn. The average value of the comprehensive ecological hazard index of the six sites was 224. 7, which was a medium level of pollution risk. The lotus seeds corresponding to each site were also polluted by heavy metals to a certain extent, and Cd and Pb in the seeds exceeded the standard. Through the above analysis, the heavy metals in the soil of the lotus planting area presented a medium ecological risk. In order to ensure the safety of lotus production, it is necessary to strengthen the soil testing and management in the lotus planting area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]