δ15N in Birch and Pine Leaves in the Vicinity of a Large Copper Smelter Indicating a Change in the Conditions of Their Soil Nutrition

δ13C and δ15N were analyzed in the leaves of Pinus sylvestris L. Betula spp. under conditions severe heavy metal (Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb) contamination. Twenty-seven plots located near Karabash copper smelter (Russia) studied. No reliable correlation 13C tree with level pollution was observed. δ15N, both spp., increased similarly polluted areas. by 2.3‰ needles 1.6‰ compared to background ones. The probable reasons for increase estimated using multiple regression. regression model, which includes two predictors: humus horizon occurrence roots litter, explains 33% total variability leaves. Thus, ecosystems metals, state trees is determined not only direct toxic effects metals but also indirect ones associated features plant mineral nutrition. This fact opens way search opportunities control plants disturbed regulating content nutrition elements.