Interspecific Differences in the Accumulation of Elements by Forest-Forming Species in Zones of Aerotechnogenic Pollution in the Urals, Russia

Magnesite production negatively impacts forest ecosystems; yet, the impact of such pollution on vegetation remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate interspecific differences in the accumulation of macro- and microelements in the vegetation organs of 43-year-old experimental forest stands of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) exposed to emissions from magnesite production. The study area comprised experimental plots established in 1983 under similar forest growth conditions, with varying anthropogenic loads near a magnesite production source. In each experimental site, 15 model trees per species were selected across pollution zones and background conditions. Samples of shoots, bark, needles (pine), and leaves (birch) were collected. Increasing soil pH to alkaline levels (9.2–8.9 units) altered exchangeable cation ratios (Mg2+, Ca2+), deteriorated soil structure, and induced solonetz properties. Species showed significant differences in Na, Zn (p < .001), Fe, Cd (p < .01), Ca, and Mn (p < .05). Organ-specific variation was significant for Ca, Mg, K, Na, Mn, Zn, and Cd, with the greatest variation in K, Mg, Na, and Mn (p < .001). Approaching the emission source, concentrations of Ca, Mg, K, Mn, and Zn changed significantly, with Mn (p < .001) and Mg (p < .01) showing strong distance dependence. Scots pine is a preferred bioindicator species for monitoring magnesite pollution. At the same time, silver birch shows greater resistance and is recommended as planting material for reforestation in magnesite-contaminated areas. Cite this article as: Pospelova (Kuzmina), N., Gorbunova, V., Menshchikov, S., Mokhnachev, P., Arıcak, B., Koç, İ., & Şevik, H. (2026). Interspecific differences in the accumulation of elements by forest-forming species in zones of aerotechnogenic pollution in the Urals, Russia. Forestist, 76, 0032, doi: 10.5152/forestist.2026.26032.