Physiological Alterations and Heavy Metal Accumulation in the Lichen Pyxine cocoes (Sw.) Nyl. of Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh

Pyxine cocoes (Sw.) Nyl., foliose lichen is widespread in the region and grows luxuriantly on the various substrata. For the elemental concentration and biochemical parameters, P. cocoes were collected from the Mandi district and were analysed to assess their tolerance to heavy metals. Six parameters were estimated, including total chlorophyll concentration, carotenoid, protein, flavonoid, phenolic content, and heavy metals (Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium, Nickel, Copper), that are commonly used to determine pollution levels. At a heavily contaminated site, the species accumulated maximum amounts of Pb > Ni > Cu > As > Cd. Most metal concentrations at various sites were significant when compared to the control site. Moreover, total chlorophyll concentration, carotenoid, protein, flavonoid, and total phenolic seem to be the most effective and interesting variables for estimating the level of air pollution in an area. Total chlorophyll, flavonoid, and total phenolic were significantly greater at the moderately polluted site, whilst carotenoid or protein was high at the non-polluted site. The current research concludes that P. cocoes is resistant to inorganic contamination and can be used as a biomonitoring tool for air quality in the region.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the tolerance of the foliose lichen Pyxine cocoes to heavy metals and found it can be used as a biomonitoring tool for air quality in the region. It also identified several biochemical parameters that effectively estimate air pollution levels.