The use of the barbell cluster ANOVA design for the assessment of environmental pollution: a case study, Wigierski National Park, NE Poland

Environ Pollut. 2005 Jan;133(2):213-23. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2004.06.007.

Abstract

This report presents an assessment of chemical variability in natural ecosystems of Wigierski National Park (NE Poland) derived from the calculation of geochemical baselines using a barbell cluster ANOVA design. This method enabled us to obtain statistically valid information with a minimum number of samples collected. Results of summary statistics are presented for elemental concentrations in the soil horizons-O (Ol + Ofh), -A and -B, 1- and 2-year old Pinus sylvestris L. (Scots pine) needles, pine bark and Hypogymnia physodes (L.) Nyl. (lichen) thalli, as well as pH and TOC. The scope of this study also encompassed S and C stable isotope determinations and SEM examinations on Scots pine needles. The variability for S and trace metals in soils and plant bioindicators is primarily governed by parent material lithology and to a lesser extent by anthropogenic factors. This fact enabled us to study concentrations that are close to regional background levels.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Analysis of Variance
  • Cluster Analysis
  • Ecosystem
  • Environmental Monitoring / methods
  • Environmental Pollution / analysis*
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Lichens / chemistry
  • Metals, Heavy / analysis
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning / methods
  • Pinus sylvestris / chemistry
  • Pinus sylvestris / ultrastructure
  • Soil Pollutants / analysis*
  • Sulfur / analysis
  • Trace Elements / analysis*

Substances

  • Metals, Heavy
  • Soil Pollutants
  • Trace Elements
  • Sulfur