Co-deposition of silicon with rare earth elements (REEs) and aluminium in the fern Dicranopteris linearis from China

Aims Dicranopteris linearis is a fern that accumulates unusually high concentrations (up to 0.3% dry weight) of rare earth elements (REEs) in China. Previously, we reported that D. linearis accumulates high concentrations of aluminium (Al) and silicon (Si) in the fronds, but the interactions between these elements and REEs were unknown. Methods In this study, a range of analytical techniques, including chemical extractions, Scanning-Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) were used to study the association of REEs with Al and Si. Results The results show that D. linearis accumulates high concentrations of REEs (up to 3830 mg kg −1 ), Al (up to 9660 mg kg −1 ) and Si (up to 20,300 mg kg −1 ), with concentrations increasing with age and frond order of pinna. The extraction patterns suggest the existence of REEs-Si and Al-Si complexes. The SEM-EDS analysis confirmed the existence of phytoliths (Al) deposits in the protoplast and apoplast of the pinna cells. The upper epidermis of the pinnule and the pericycle of the midvein are more concentrated in phytoliths (Al) particles. The LA-ICP-MS analysis revealed that REEs and Al are preferentially compartmentalized within bio-inactive tissues of the pinnules, e.g. necrotic tissues (REEs) and in the margins (Al). Conclusions Co-deposition of Si with REEs and Al may be a mechanism for dealing with the high concentrations of REEs and Al in D. linearis fronds.