Accumulation of poly chlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the transplanted lichen Ramalina duriaei in air quality biomonitoring experiments

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the range of 0.17–5.1 ppm were found in the lichen Ramalina duriaei (De not.) Jatta transplanted at various sites in the environment for biomonitoring of airborne PCBs. Highest PCB values were found in lichens located at busy road intersections, where traffic is ordinarily heavy, while lower amounts of 1.0 ppm or less were characteristic of lichens located at sites removed from traffic or in more isolated agricultural areas. The present investigation demonstrates the feasibility of using lichens as PCB monitors in air.