Open Access

REVIEW

Heavy Metal/Metalloid Indexing and Balances in Agricultural Soils: Methodological Approach for Research

by Shahid Hussain^*

Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan

* Corresponding Author: Shahid Hussain. Email:

Phyton-International Journal of Experimental Botany 2022, 91(12), 2687-2697. https://doi.org/10.32604/phyton.2022.021158

Received 30 December 2021; Accepted 21 April 2022; Issue published 29 August 2022

Abstract

Heavy metal(loid) accumulation in agricultural soils is a threat to the soil capacity, quality, and productivity. It also increases human exposure to heavy metal(loid)s via consumption of contaminated plant-based foods. The detrimental effects of soil contamination also deteriorate the environment of plants and animals. For sustainable agriculture, therefore, the soil must be protected from toxic levels of heavy metal(loid)s. Studies on heavy metal(loid) balances in agricultural soils are important in predicting future risks to sustainable production from agro-ecological zones and human exposure to heavy metal(loid)s. The latest and continuous indexing of the problem seems a prerequisite for sustainable agriculture. This review provides some background information and then summarizes key methodological approaches for studies on indexing and balance of heavy metal(loid)s in agricultural soils. In the end, important soil and health indices are explained that may be useful in understanding the extent of the problem. The provided information would contribute to sustainable heavy metal(loid) management in the agricultural soils, high crop production, better soil protection, and ultimately to human health.

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Keywords

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