Intra-specific variation in zinc, cadmium and nickel hypertolerance and hyperaccumulation capacities in Noccaea caerulescens

The study aimed at characterizing the patterns of natural variation in the tolerance and accumulation capacities for zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), and nickel (Ni) between and within edaphic ecotypes of the Zn/Cd/Ni hyperaccumulator, Noccaea caerulescens. Tolerance was assessed in a hydroponic ‘sequential exposure’ test, using the lowest concentration that completely arrested root growth as an end point. Accumulation was measured as the foliar metal...