HEAVY METAL CONTENTS OF STRAWBERRY FRUITS GROWN UNDER DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the concentration of heavy metals, viz. Pb, Cd, Ni, Fe, Cu, Mn and Zn in Selva and Chandler strawberry cultivars grown in heavy clay soil at EI-Deer, Toukh, kaluobia governorate at distance of 0-1 0, 20-25, 40-45 and 200 meter from the driving way with an average daily traffic density 17712 vehicles. The same cultivars were planted in the second experiment under low tunnels in sandy soil at South Tahrir, Beheira governorate as a comparison for non- contaminated environment. Results indicated that the concentrations of heavy metals in fruits were negatively correlated with increasing the distance from the traffic road and positively correlated with their concentration in leaves. Low levels of Cd, Ni,Fe, Mn and Zn and high levels of Pb and Cu were found in fruits and leaves of Selva as compared with Chandler. Pb, Cd and Cu content were lowest at full color stage. While, the highest Fe and Mn contents were found at full color stage. However, Ni and Zn content in fruits were not affected by coloring stage. Results also indicated that planting strawberry at distances far from the driving way affected positively fruit quality, Viz., ascorbic acid content, total soluble solids, total and reducing sugars as well as dry matter content and fruit firmness. While, total titratable acidity was not affected by distance from the road. With respect to the second experiment, planting strawberry at non­ contaminated environment under low tunnels prevented lead and cadmium accumulation in fruits and affected positively fruit quality. It could be concluded that strawberry plants could be grown safety after 25 m from the driving way without heavy metals contamination from cars. While, it is preferable to establish strawberry plantations in isolated areas especially for export.