The importance of influencing factors in passive biomonitoring for statistical evaluation of heavy metal concentrations

The comprehensive measuring network of the epiphytic moss Hypnum cupressiforme in Bavaria is to show the regional distribution of the heavy metal depositions from the atmosphere. With the representation of the influencing factors, possibilities and limits of extensive monitoring by passive biomonitoring are investigated. The question about regional distribution patterns and temporal changes is related to the variability, comparability and representative character of the measured data which are examined with the aid of descriptive and geostatistical methods. Statements about the order of magnitude of influences can be derived from it; however, a causal clarification necessitates the knowledge of further parameters. (orig.)