Distribution of Cr, Ni and Co in soils and rocks of Neyriz area (Iran): the influence of ophiolitic formations

Neyriz area, on south of Neyriz ophiolite complex, is one of the most important areas in fruit production. However, no study has been yet performed to assess the contamination status of soils in this region. The objective of the present study was to explore soil pollution by Cr, Ni and Co. Three landforms (ophiolite hills, alluvial fan and playa) were selected along a transect. Seven pedons were excavated and soil and rock samples were obtained. The total concentration of Cr, Ni and Co, Enrichment Factor (EF) and Geo-accumulation index (I-geo) were determined. Results showed that soils over ophiolite hills and alluvial fan were extremely polluted by Cr and Ni (I-geo=3-6). The EF Index confirmed that heavy metals originated from ophiolite rocks in the region. Both indices showed a descending trend from ophiolite hills to playa that related to deposit transportation processes during landforms evolution. It was also observed a decreasing vertical trend in metal contents in the soils over alluvial fan which can be attributed to the long-time irrigation and plant uptake as affected by land use. Further investigation is needed to understand the contamination status of ground-water and orchards of the region to achieve sustainable management.