Heavy metal tolerance of inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata)

Authors

R. A. Prodgers, 2715 Ottawa, Butte, Montana
W. P. Inskeep, Montana State University, Bozeman

Abstract

Inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) occurs on at least two metal-contaminated sites in southwestern Montana. As a result of mining, milling, and smelting activities, soils have elevated concentrations of copper, zinc, and manganese. One soil is acidic (upper horizons), slightly saline, and moderately sodic. The other soil is alkaline, nonsaline, and nonsodic. The fact that inland saltgrass grows on these soils and does not accumulate dangerous levels of metals makes it a candidate species for revegetating hardrock mining and other metal-polluted sites.

Recommended Citation

Prodgers, R. A. and Inskeep, W. P. (1991) "Heavy metal tolerance of inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata)," Great Basin Naturalist: Vol. 51: No. 3, Article 11.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/gbn/vol51/iss3/11