Content of Heavy Metals and Sulphur in Fruits Sampled in Vicinity of Mining-metallurgical Complex

The pollution emitted into the air from mining-metallurgical complex negatively affects the environment. Plants have the ability to accumulate pollutants in their tissues. The concentration of heavy metals Ni, Zn, Mn and Cu, as well as sulphur, were determined in the edible parts of fruits. The fruits of apple, pear, peach and apricot trees were sampled in rural areas in the vicinity of the industrial complex. Cluster analysis showed grouping of Ni, Mn and Zn into one cluster, while Cu and S were grouped into the other clusters due to high concentrations in fruit samples. High concentrations of Cu and S indicate contamination of the fruits. These elements could also originate from the mining-metallurgical complex or from excessive use of chemicals for plant protection against diseases and pests.