Atmospheric phenanthrene transfer and effects on two grassland species and their root symbionts: A microcosm study

▶ PHE was mostly transferred from air to leaves and absorbed in the inner tissues. ▶ PHE recovered in roots and soil suggested a phloemic transport within plants. ▶ Clover shoot biomass was significantly affected whereas root biomass remained stable. ▶ Clover Rhizobium nodulation was affected whereas mycorrhization was maintained. ▶ Neither biomass accumulation nor symbiotic association was affected in ryegrass.