Trace elements profile of Slate Bolete (Leccinum duriusculum) mushroom and associated upper soil horizon

The aim of this study was to characterize the profile and bioconcentration potential of 17 metallic elements and phosphorous in fruiting bodies of edible Slate Bolete (Leccinum duriusculum) mushroom in relation to their content in top soils beneath the mushrooms. Slate Bolete is a more effective extractor of many elements from soils compared to 20% solution of nitric acid. However, some elements, especially those abundant in soils (such as Al, Fe) are less efficiently extracted by the mushrooms or their uptake is regulated according to mushroom's physiological needs. The elements K, P and Mg were particularly abundant with mean values of 37, 5.8 and 1.1 g kg− 1 dry weight (dw) in caps of Slate Bolete, respectively, and they were followed by Rb, Na and Zn with mean values of 350, 340, 150 mg kg− 1 dw, respectively. The concentrations of Mn, Cu, Al, Fe and Ca were between ~ 16 and 88 mg kg− 1 dw, while the other elements were ~ l.0 mg kg− 1 dw or less. The caps and stipes showed similar concentrations of Al, Mn and Ni (p > 0.05), while they showed different concentrations for Ag, Ba, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Na, P, Pb, Rb, Sr and Zn (p < 0.05; Mann–Whitney U test). From the nutritional point of view, Slate Bolete is a rich dietary source of essential elements such as Rb, K, Cu, Zn, P and Mg. The toxic elements, Cd and Pb, contained in Slate Bolete are below established limits and do not pose a threat to consumer's health.

► We examined 18 elements in Slate Boletes and upper soil horizon.
► Ag, Cd, Cu, K, Mg, Na, P, Rb and Zn were bioconcentrated (BCF > 1) by mushroom.
► Al, Ba, Ca, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Sr were excluded (BCF < 1) by mushroom.
► Slate Boletes are a dietary source of essential Rb, K, Cu, Zn, P and Mg.
► Exposures to Cd and Pb by eating mushrooms were below guidelines on safe exposures.