Fluoride content and epicuticular wax condition in pedunculate oak tree (Quercus robur L.) leaves

Fluoride content and epicuticular wax condition in pedunculate oak tree lea ves from a natural forest near a phosphogypsum dump and from a planted stan d 2 km away from the dump (control) were investigated. The study indicated considerable differences in these parameters between the two localities. In creased fluoride content, accompanied by earlier and accelerated degradatio n of epicuticular crystalline wax on the stomatal rim of abaxial epidermis was observed in leaves from the first locality, and the most advanced stage of wax degradation was recorded only in the leaves from this site. The acc elerated alterations are interpreted as possible negative effects of fluori des.