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International audience; Reliable estimations of soil organic carbon (SOC) deficits in agroecosystems are crucial in evaluating the atmospheric C sequestration potential of agricultural soils and supporting management decisions. Nonetheless, the co-benefit on soil quality resulting from SOC accrual is rarely considered. Here, we assessed SOC saturation and soil physical quality in permanent grasslands (PG) and croplands (CR) by applying the C-saturation concept and the SOC:clay ratio as an indicator of soil physical quality to a set of long-term monitoring sites in western Switzerland. For this goal, we produced a new relationship between the silt + clay (SC) particles and the C stored in the mineral-associated fraction (MAOM(C)) and we assessed the assumption that grasslands can be used as C-saturated reference sites. The saturation in PG was not coincidental as it depended on the C accrual history. Hence, PG with the lowest MAOM(C) have not reached their C-saturation level and present a potential SOC storage under optimal management. The MAOM(C) saturation in CR was low (62 +/- 4%) and corresponded to a deficit of -8.8 +/- 1.2 mg C g(-1 )soil as compared to the current level in PG. The saturation was mainly affected by the proportion of temporary grassland in the crop rotation. The relative distribution of C between MAOM (similar to 80%) and the fine and coarse particulate organic matter (POM) was not affected by land-use types. The MAOM(C) saturation in this study (MAOM(C) = 0.372 x SC + 4.23) was similar to that reported in the litterature, but discrepancies appeared when the silt and clay contents were considered separately. SC was by far the main factor explaining MAOM(C) amount in PG (semi-partial R-2 : 0.66). In contrast to other studies, the C content of MAOM in PG (43 mg C g(-1) SC) was not related to the SC content, suggesting a fixed maximal value in C-saturated soils. Nonetheless, MAOM(C) saturation may be underestimated as the least saturated PG might still accumulate MAOM(C). Finally, the SOC:clay ratio was correlated with MAOM(C) saturation level in CR, but not in PG suggesting that targeting SOC accrual in CR optimizes the benefits between soil C storage and soil quality.

International audience; This paper aims to map the ecosystem services (ES) provided by a reputed agropastoral ecosystem in the south of Albania and ascertain whether social capital affects the level of importance attributed to them. A perception analysis of both buyers and sellers of ES within the pastoral ecosystem is undertaken. The pastoral ecosystem is mainly evaluated for cultural services such as tradition, enhancing the area’s image, and environment ES. The strong inclination towards cultural ES and socioeconomic services indicates a lack of awareness of both buyers and sellers of ES in the local community regarding the environmental aspects of their ecosystem. However, participants showing a higher radius of trust with high linking social capital are more likely to confer very high importance to environmental services. Similarly, the cultural ES (traditional aspect) of the pastoral ecosystem is affected by cognitive and structural social capital. These are interesting findings for public policymaking concerning the opportunity to develop market transaction ES. Its development is more ground-based and effective if participation and civic engagement, especially the Linking dimension, is enhanced in the pastoral community.

13 páginas, 5 figuras, 3 tablas., The COST action “Standardising output-based surveillance to control non-regulated diseases of cattle in the European Union (SOUND control),” aims to harmonise the results of surveillance and control programmes (CPs) for non-EU regulated cattle diseases to facilitate safe trade and improve overall control of cattle infectious diseases. In this paper we aimed to provide an overview on the diversity of control for these diseases in Europe. A non-EU regulated cattle disease was defined as an infectious disease of cattle with no or limited control at EU level, which is not included in the European Union Animal health law Categories A or B under Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/2002. A CP was defined as surveillance and/or intervention strategies designed to lower the incidence, prevalence, mortality or prove freedom from a specific disease in a region or country. Passive surveillance, and active surveillance of breeding bulls under Council Directive 88/407/EEC were not considered as CPs. A questionnaire was designed to obtain country-specific information about CPs for each disease. Animal health experts from 33 European countries completed the questionnaire. Overall, there are 23 diseases for which a CP exists in one or more of the countries studied. The diseases for which CPs exist in the highest number of countries are enzootic bovine leukosis, bluetongue, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, bovine viral diarrhoea and anthrax (CPs reported by between 16 and 31 countries). Every participating country has on average, 6 CPs (min–max: 1–13) in place. Most programmes are implemented at a national level (86%) and are applied to both dairy and non-dairy cattle (75%). Approximately one-third of the CPs are voluntary, and the funding structure is divided between government and private resources. Countries that have eradicated diseases like enzootic bovine leukosis, bluetongue, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis and bovine viral diarrhoea have implemented CPs for other diseases to further improve the health status of cattle in their country. The control of non-EU regulated cattle diseases is very heterogenous in Europe. Therefore, the standardising of the outputs of these programmes to enable comparison represents a challenge.

The mass production of synthetic plastics began in the last century and today they have become one of the most abundant man-made materials. The disposal or the beneficiation of end-of-life plastics represent a great challenge for society especially in the case of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This study is focused on the use of PVC waste as a useful agent for the direct reduction of hematite (Fe2O3) after a thermal treatment at 300 °C for removing the chlorine contained in PVC. Thermal reduction tests were conducted from 600 °C to 1100 °C with (Fe2O3 + PVC + clay) pellet mixtures in which clay was used as plasticizing and binder agent of the pellets. The starting samples and treatment residues were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy through energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to monitor the chemical behavior and reactivity of the pellet constituents during their thermal treatment. The stepwise reduction of hematite up to metallic iron was achieved at temperatures approaching 1000 °C, confirming the capability of using PVC waste for the direct reduction of iron oxides.

International audience; In Albania, ultramafic outcrops cover 11% of the surface and have the potential to support nickel phytomining. In a large-scale in-situ experiment on an ultramafic Vertisols in Pojske we are studying the influence of agronomical practices on Ni phytoextraction yield of Odontarrhena chalcidica (syn. Alyssum murale). Three cropping systems were compared in three plots in 2016-2017; POJ-1 Plot (0.3 ha) was established with plants that had germinated spontaneously without any treatments; POJ-2 plot (0.3 ha) was covered by plants that had germinated spontaneously and was treated with mineral fertilizer (N50P50K50 kg ha(-1)); and POJ-3 Plot (400 m(2)) was divided in four sub plots, where O. chalcidica was planted at a density of 4 plants m(-2) on which, we neither applied fertilizer, nor NPK fertilizer (N65P65K65), pig (FPM; N260:P105:K260 + 15 kg ha(-1)N, P, K) or chicken manure (FCHM; N260:P390:K260 +15 kg ha(-1) N, P, K. Irrigation and mechanical control of weeds was done on POJ-3. After 8 months, shoot Ni concentration, biomass, and Ni yields were higher in O. chalcidica treated with manure and the cost of biomass production was smaller. Nickel yield was more promising (145 kg ha(-1)) than in previous field trials. This study highlights that, using manure, the Ni yield increases Ni phytomining net values, thus agromining can become an economically justifiable agricultural cropping system.

International audience; Various European Member States have implemented control or eradication programmes for endemic infectious diseases in cattle. The design of these programmes varies between countries and therefore comparison of the outputs of different control programmes is complex. Although output-based methods to estimate the confidence of freedom resulting from these programmes are under development, as yet there is no practical modeling framework applicable to a variety of infectious diseases. Therefore, a data collection tool was developed to evaluate data availability and quality and to collect actual input data required for such a modeling framework. The aim of the current paper is to present the key learnings from the process of the development of this data collection tool. The data collection tool was developed by experts from two international projects: STOC free (Surveillance Tool for Outcome-based Comparison of FREEdom from infection, www.stocfree.eu ) and SOUND control (Standardizing OUtput-based surveillance to control Non-regulated Diseases of cattle in the EU, www.sound-control.eu ). Initially a data collection tool was developed for assessment of freedom of bovine viral diarrhea virus in six Western European countries. This tool was then further generalized to enable inclusion of data for other cattle diseases i.e., infectious bovine rhinotracheitis and Johne's disease. Subsequently, the tool was pilot-tested by a Western and Eastern European country, discussed with animal health experts from 32 different European countries and further developed for use throughout Europe. The developed online data collection tool includes a wide range of variables that could reasonably influence confidence of freedom, including those relating to cattle demographics, risk factors for introduction and characteristics of disease control programmes. Our results highlight the fact that data requirements for different cattle diseases can be generalized and easily included in a data collection tool. However, there are large differences in data availability and comparability across European countries, presenting challenges to the development of a standardized data collection tool and modeling framework. These key learnings are important for development of any generic data collection tool for animal disease control purposes. Further, the results can facilitate development of output-based modeling frameworks that aim to calculate confidence of freedom from disease.

Riverine systems act as converging pathways for discarded litter within drainage basins, becoming key elements in gauging the transfer of mismanaged waste into the ocean. However, riverine litter data are scarce and biased towards microplastics, generally lacking information about larger items. Based on the first ever database of riverine floating macrolitter across Europe, we have estimated that between 307 and 925 million litter items are released annually from Europe into the ocean. The plastic fraction represented 82% of the observed litter, mainly fragments and single-use items (that is, bottles, packaging and bags). Our modelled estimates show that a major portion of the total litter loading is routed through small-sized drainage basins (, We acknowledge the additional members (coordinators and observers) of RiLON, listed in Supplementary Data 5, for their support in the field data collection and feedback during the data quality control. D.G.-F. was supported by the JRC institutional exploratory project RIMMEL (272346), PLASTREND (BBVA Foundation) and the European Union (H2020-MSCA-IF-2018 846843 - LitRivus). J.V. and C.M.-C. were supported by the MIDaS project (Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, CTM2016-77106-R, AEI/FEDER/UE).

International audience; Some European countries have successfully implemented country-specific control programs (CPs) for infectious cattle diseases that are not regulated or are regulated only to a limited extent at the European Union (EU) level. Examples of such diseases include bovine viral diarrhea (BVD), infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), and Johne's disease (JD). The CPs vary between countries in the design and quality of collected data as well as methods used to detect infection and estimate prevalence or probability of freedom from infection. Differences in disease status between countries and non-standardized approaches to assess freedom from infection pose a risk for countries with CPs for non-regulated diseases as infected animals may influence the progress of the disease control or eradication program. The implementation of output-based standards allows estimation and comparison of the probability of freedom for non-regulated cattle diseases in European countries. The aim of the current study was to assess the existence and quality of data that could be used for estimating freedom from infection in European countries. The online data collection tool was sent to 32 countries participating in the SOUND control COST Action and was completed by 24 countries. Data on cattle demographics and data from CPs of IBR and BVD exist in more than 50% of the response countries. However, data describing risk factors and CP of JD was reported as existing in

Highlights • Non-regulated cattle diseases in EU are subject to different control programmes making difficult their comparison. • Output-based and risk-based approaches can provide comparable data regardless of the surveillance activities or epidemiological scenarios. • SOUND CONTROL will provide requirements for an output-based framework for non-regulated cattle diseases. • Results can be applicable to other diseases and species, widening the application of output-based and cost-efficient disease surveillance., Several European countries have implemented country specific programmes to control cattle diseases with little or no regulation in the European Union (EU). These control programmes vary between member states, impairing a confident comparison of freedom from disease when cattle originate from different countries. In order to facilitate safe trade, there is a need to support the development of transparent methods that enable comparison of outputs of surveillance, control or eradication programmes. The aim of the COST Action (CA 17110), Standardizing OUtput-based surveillance to control Non-regulated Diseases in the EU (SOUND control), is the development of a generic and joint understanding of the requirements and characteristics needed for a flexible output-based framework. This framework should be able to substantiate the confidence of disease freedom and cost-effectiveness of heterogeneous surveillance, control or eradication programmes for cattle diseases in the EU. This project supports other initiatives in the development of an output-based framework which will subsequently facilitate safe trade and support the improvement of disease control measures, which is of great importance as the cattle sector contributes to one third of the total gross production value of EU agriculture.

International audience; The most economically important iron-chromium bearing minerals is chromite. In natural deposits, iron(II) is frequently substituted by magnesium(II) while chromium(III) is replaced by aluminum(III) and/or iron(III) forming a complex chromium bearing material. The majority of mined chromite is intended for the production of ferrochrome which requires a chromite concentrate with high chromium-to-iron ratio. Found mostly in the spinel chromite structure, iron cannot be removed by physical mineral processing methods. In this frame, the present work deals with the reaction of chlorine and chlorine+oxygen with selected samples of chromite concentrates for assessing the reactivity of their components towards chlorinating atmosphere, allowing the preferential removal of iron, hence meeting the chromite metallurgical grade requirements. Isothermal thermogravimetric analysis was used as a reliable approach for the kinetic reactivity investigation. Results indicated a wide difference in the thermal behavior of chromite constituents in a chlorinating atmosphere when considering their respective values of apparent activation energy oscillating from about 60 to 300 kJ/mol as a function of the sample reacted fraction. During the chromite treatment by chlorine in presence of oxygen, chromium was recovered as liquid chromyl chloride by condensation of the reaction gas phase.

During the treatment of copper anode slime (CAS) under an air atmosphere, several aspects of the interactions of its main components (CuAgSe, Cu2−xSeyS1−y, Ag3AuSe2) with oxygen were described in Part I. As a comparative and complementary study, this work deals with the thermal behavior of CAS under air in the presence of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) between 195 and 770 °C. The preliminary thermal treatment of an e-waste sample containing brominated substances was also performed. The reaction products were systematically analyzed by scanning electron microscopy through energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to investigate the thermal behaviors of the studied samples in a halogenated medium. At low temperatures, the copper, silver and selenium compounds of the CAS reacted with the HCl, issued from PVC degradation, leading to the formation of their respective chlorides. Bromides of valuable metals (Cu, Pb, Sn…) were synthesized during the e-waste treatment at 500 °C and they were distributed between the solid residue and gaseous phase. The data obtained give an insight into the reactivity of several metals towards halogenated substances, which may be valuable information for conducting the extraction and recycling of targeted elements from industrial by-products and end-of-life materials by a thermochemical route.

In this paper we will show how to constructed an Skew-Field with trace-preserving endomorphisms of the affine plane. Earlier in my paper, we doing a detailed description of endomorphisms algebra and trace-preserving endomorphisms algebra in an affine plane, and we have constructed an associative unitary ring for which trace-preserving endomorphisms. In this paper we formulate and prove an important Lemma, which enables us to construct a particular trace-preserving endomorphism, with the help of which we can construct the inverse trace-preserving endomorphisms of every trace-preserving endomorphism. At the end of this paper we have proven that the set of trace-preserving endomorphisms together with the actions of 'addition' and 'composition' (which is in the role of 'multiplication') forms a skew-field., 11 pages. arXiv admin note: substantial text overlap with arXiv:2003.09528

The Mediterranean Large Elasmobranchs Monitoring (MEDLEM) database contains more than 3,000 records (with more than 4,000 individuals) of large elasmobranch species from 21 different countries around the Mediterranean and Black seas, observed from 1666 to 2017. The principal species included in the archive are the devil ray (1,868 individuals), the basking shark (935 individuals), the blue shark (622 individuals), and the great white shark (342 individuals). In the last decades, other species such as the thresher shark (187 individuals), the shortfin mako (180 individuals), and the spiny butterfly ray (138) were reported with increasing frequency. This was possibly due to increased public awareness on the conservation status of sharks, and the consequent development of new monitoring programs. MEDLEM does not have homogeneous reporting coverage throughout the Mediterranean and Black seas and it should be considered as a database of observed species presence. Scientific monitoring efforts in the south-eastern Mediterranean and Black seas are generally lower than in the northern sectors and the absence of some species in our database does not imply their actual absence in these regions. However,the available data allowed us to analyse the frequency and spatial distribution of records, the size frequencies for a few selected species, the overall area coverage, and which species are involved as bycatch by different fishing gears., Sí

International audience; Tree-related microhabitats (TreMs) are important features for the conservation of biodiversity in forest ecosystems. Although other structural indicators of forest biodiversity have been extensively studied in recent decades, TreMs have often been overlooked, either due to the absence of a consensual definition or a lack of knowledge. Despite the increased number of TreM studies in the last decade, the role of drivers of TreM profile in primary forests and across different geographical regions is still unknown. To evaluate the main drivers of TreM density and diversity, we conducted the first large-scale study of TreMs across European primary forests. We established 146 plots in eight primary forests dominated by European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) in the Carpathian and Dinaric mountain ranges. Generalized linear mixed effect models were used to test the effect of local plot characteristics and spatial variability on the density and diversity (alpha, beta, and gamma) of TreMs. Total TreM density and diversity were significantly positively related with tree species richness and the proportion of snags. Root mean square tree diameters were significantly related to alpha and gamma diversity of TreMs. Both regions reached similarly high values of total TreM densities and total TreM densities and diversity were not significantly different between the two regions; however, we observed between the two regions significant differences in the densities of two TreM groups, conks of fungi and epiphytes. The density and diversity of TreMs were very high in beech-dominated mountain primary forests, but their occurrence and diversity was highly variable within the landscapes over relatively short spatial gradients (plot and stand levels). Understanding these profile provides a benchmark for further comparisons, such as with young forest reserves, or for improving forest management practices that promote biodiversity.

International audience; The number of invasive alien pest and pathogen species affecting ecosystem functioning, human health and economies has increased dramatically over the last decades. Discoveries of invasive pests and pathogens previously unknown to science or with unknown host associations yet damaging on novel hosts highlights the necessity of developing novel tools to predict their appearance in hitherto naive environments. The use of sentinel plant systems is a promising tool to improve the detection of pests and pathogens before introduction and to provide valuable information for the development of preventative measures to minimize economic or environmental impacts. Though sentinel plantings have been established and studied during the last decade, there still remains a great need for guidance on which tools and protocols to put into practice in order to make assessments accurate and reliable. The sampling and diagnostic protocols chosen should enable as much information as possible about potential damaging agents and species identification. Consistency and comparison of results are based on the adoption of common procedures for sampling design and sample processing. In this paper, we suggest harmonized procedures that should be used in sentinel planting surveys for effective sampling and identification of potential pests and pathogens. We also review the benefits and limitations of various diagnostic methods for early detection in sentinel systems, and the feasibility of the results obtained supporting National Plant Protection Organizations in pest and commodity risk analysis.

National audience

International audience; Ultramafic soils are typically enriched in nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), and cobalt (Co) and deficient in essential nutrients, making them unattractive for traditional agriculture. Implementing agromining systems in ultramafic agricultural soils represent an ecological option for the sustainable management and re-valorisation of these low-productivity landscapes. These novel agroecosystems cultivate Ni-hyperaccumulating plants which are able to bioaccumulate this metal in their aerial plant parts; harvested biomass can be incinerated to produce Ni-enriched ash or “bio-ore” from which Ni metal, Ni ecocatalysts or pure Ni salts can be recovered. Nickel hyperaccumulation has been documented in ∼450 species, and in temperate latitudes these mainly belong to the family Brassicaceae and particularly to the genus Odontarrhena (syn. Alyssum pro parte). Agromining allows for sustainable metal recovery without causing the environmental impacts associated with conventional mining activities, and at the same time, can improve soil fertility and quality and provide essential ecosystem services. Parallel reductions in Ni phytotoxicity over time would also permit cultivation of conventional agricultural crops. Field studies in Europe have been restricted to Mediterranean areas and these only evaluated the Ni-hyperaccumulator Odontarrhena muralis s.l. Two recent EU projects (Agronickel and LIFE-Agromine) have established a network of agromining field sites in ultramafic regions with different edapho-climatic characteristics across Albania, Austria, Greece and Spain. Soil and crop management practices are being developed so as to Kidd et al. Sustainable Agromining Systems for Nickel Recovery optimize the Ni agromining process; field studies are evaluating the potential benefits of fertilization regimes, crop selection and cropping patterns, and bioaugmentation with plant-associated microorganisms. Hydrometallurgical processes are being up-scaled to produce nickel compounds and energy from hyperaccumulator biomass. Exploratory techno-economic assessment of Ni metal recovery by pyrometallurgical conversion of O. muralis s.l. shows promising results under the condition that heat released during incineration can be valorized in the vicinity of the processing facility.

A post Ferro-nickel mining land management needs to recognize the physical, chemical characteristics of soil and plants that grow naturally by tolerating the levels of heavy metals. The objective of this study were to: i) investigate and evaluate the natural process of plant colonization on abandoned ferro-nickel mining sites located on ultramafic substrate; to ii) understand the relationship between soil properties and species distribution and to iii) assess the potential of hyperaccumulator plants for the soil phytoremediation. This area was divided into five 100 m(2) plots that were representatives of the variability of the site, based on localization, land use and total vegetative cover. For each plot, the physicochemical characteristics of the soils, the inventory of plant species and the accumulation of Ni by all plant taxa were determined. The soils in the ex-mining area of Perrenjas appeared highly polluted by Ni, Co and Cr compared to the natural levels of the surrounding ultramafic soils. The toxic levels of trace metals and the deficiency of organic matter appeared as major constraints for plant colonization. In total, 96 plant species belonging to 26 families in the studied mining sites of Perrenjas were recorded. Several plants show the ability to tolerate and accumulate metals and may be useful for phyto-stabilization. Alyssum murale was the best candidate for Ni phyto-extraction technologies, with concentrations above 1000 mg/kg Ni in plant tissues.

International audience; The largest serpentine outcrops in Europe occur in the Balkan Peninsula. Kosovo, as a part of this region, hosts an ultramafic area of 487 km(2) within its territory. This work reports the first systematic biogeochemical survey on the significant and most representative ultramafic massifs of Kosovo. The aim of this study was (i) to detail the geochemical composition of 12 ultramafic pedons obtained from 10 selected sites chosen as representative for Kosovo, (ii) to inventoriate the flora occurring on these sites and (iii) to identify plant species with potential for use in phytostabilization or phytoextraction purposes. Twelve representative pedons from 10 different sites across the country were excavated and 27 horizon samples were collected. Regarding the serpentine flora, a total of 162 plant taxa located at the ultramafic sites were collected. Soils samples were characterized for basic physico-chemical characteristics and both plant and soil samples were analyzed for chemical composition. The serpentine soils samples displayed a vast array of physico-chemical characteristics which reflected the geochemistry of the bedrock, the degree of weathering and the horizon characteristics. However there appeared to be a relationship between edaphic properties and the occurrence of several plant species. Although most of the plants' species did not show metal concentrations above 1000 mg kg(-1), Odontarrhena muralis (syn. Alyssum murale Waldst. and Kit). and Noccaea ochroleuca (Boiss and Heldr.) F.K.Mey. (syn.Thlaspi ochroleucum), did, thus meeting the criterion of Ni hyperaccumulating plants. Given the aforementioned, the resilience of these plants to both tolerate and accumulate heavy metals may prove useful for phytostabilization.

Metal hyperaccumulator plants represent a unique biological resource for scientific research and practical applications. Though essential, however, an adequate knowledge of the systematics of these plants is often missing. This is the case of Odontarrhena, a large but taxonomically critical group of nickel hyperaccumulators from Eurasia. We present a study on this genus in Albania, to fill a gap in our knowledge of this group from a major centre of diversity of metallicolous flora, and to contribute updated information to the Global Hyperaccumulator Database. Morphological and karyological analyses of material from field collections across all major serpentine outcrops in the country, in different years and seasons, allowed to delimit seven taxa: O. albiflora, O. chalcidica, O. moravensis, O. sibirica, O. decipiens, O. smolikana subsp. glabra and O. rigida. The three latter taxa have been long neglected and were resurrected in view of their clear distinctness, while commonly accepted taxa such as O. bertolonii subsp. scutarina and O. markgrafii were reduced to synonymy of O. chalcidica due to the lack of consistent differentiation. Polyploidy was prevalent, while diploid complements were typical of the two vicariant endemics O. rigida and O. moravensis. Types are indicated or newly designated for each entity, and nomenclatural issues are addressed based on in-depth studies of literature and herbarium material. Revised descriptions, phenology, habitat and distribution data are given for each taxon, as well as original iconographies and chromosome counts. A revised identification key is provided. Shoot nickel concentrations were determined to assess accumulation levels of taxa and populations in natural conditions and their potential for phytoextraction of this metal from the soil. With ca. 23000 and 17000 µg of Ni g-1 of shoot dry weight, respectively, the tetraploids O. chalcidica and O. decipiens were the most promising candidates, especially the latter for its robust habit.

International audience; The 9th International Conference on Serpentine Ecology (ICSE) was held in Tirana and Pogradec (Albania) from June 5 to 9, 2017. More than 100 delegates from 29 countries around the world gathered to present their research on recent advances in: (i) ultramafic soils, (ii) biogeochemistry, (iii) diversity of ultramafic flora, microflora and fauna, (iv) ecophysiology of ultramafic-adapted organisms, (v) interactions between ultramafic organisms and their ecology, (vi) nature rehabilitation of degraded ultramafic environments (resulting from mining activities), and (vii) the production of bio-based metals through agromining technology. Additionally, the ICSE featured the first symposium on ultramafic aquatic ecology and ecotoxicology. Albania has one of the most diverse ultramafic floras in Europe. During the conference delegates visited some of the most emblematic ultramafic sites in Albania as well as the first agromining field trial in Europe. Here, we present the major topics and provide some highlights of the 25 contributions in this Special Issue (Vol. 33 no.3 and 4).

Initial experiments using Mediterranean Ni-hyperaccumulator plants for the purpose of phytomining were carried out in the 1990s. In order to meet commercial phytoextraction requirements, a technology has been developed using hyperaccumulator species with adapted intensive agronomic practices on natural Ni-rich soils. Ultramafic soils in the Balkans display a great variability in Ni concentrations and available Ni levels, both in Albania and the Pindus Mountains of Greece. In Albania, Vertisols are currently being used for low-productivity agriculture (pasture or arable land) on which phytomining could be included in cropping practices. Alyssum murale occurs widely on these ultramafic Vertisols and is a spontaneous weed that grows among other crops. This review chapter presents the different steps that were investigated during the study of soil suitability, and selection of plants up to optimization of agronomic practices, at field scale, as recently developed to reach the implementation stage of Ni agromining in Albania. During a 7-year study we addressed the following questions: (i) what are the optimal soils for Ni agromining in terms of fertility and Ni availability? (ii) what is the phytoextraction potential of local populations of Ni hyperaccumulator species? (iii) what should be the agronomical practices used to optimize the cropping of A. murale for extensive phytomining adapted to a Balkan agricultural setting?

International audience

Conservation of grapevine genetic resources is an important and long lasting task. Here, partners of the InWiGrape Activity of the European Cooperative Programme for Plant Genetic Resources have proposed a set of descriptors that will assist in identification, conservation and study of genetic resources of Vitis vinifera L. subsp. sylvestris. A distribution map of Vitis vinifera L. subsp. sylvestris populations in Europe was produced, with on-line access through the European Vitis Database. The several different aspects of conservation of Vitis vinifera L. subsp. sylvestris including bibliographical references, identification in the wild, in situ and ex situ conservation have been discussed. The descriptors and the map will assist different stakeholders, working on biodiversity and ecosystems in more effective conservation of wild grapevine genetic resources., VITIS - Journal of Grapevine Research, Vol 56 No 3 (2017): Vitis

Kurtesh Sherifi and Rémi N. Charrel contributed equally to this article; International audience; Toscana and sandfly fever Sicilian viruses (TOSV and SFSV, respectively), both transmitted by sand flies, are prominent human pathogens in the Old World. Of 1,086 serum samples collected from cattle and sheep during 2013 in various regions of Kosovo (Balkan Peninsula), 4.7% and 53.4% had neutralizing antibodies against TOSV and SFSV, respectively.

International audience

International audience

International audience

International audience; The European Life+ Program "Mil'Ouv" (standing for MILieux OUVerts/open landscapes) has developed an innovative method of diagnosis to allow an efficient management of pastoral resources that is both environmentally sustainable and economically profitable. Indeed, in France, lots of diagnosis methods are already in use by technicians and extension services. However, most of the time, these methods are either too general or too specific and do not combine ecological and pastoral dimensions. Thus, the diagnosis proposed by Mil'Ouv is based on a multiscale analysis crossing the two perspectives. Each diagnosis is therefore carried out by a naturalist, a livestock specialist and the breeder him/herself. This method was designed in and for the Mediterranean part of France. There was a practical and analytical issue of extending and adapting it to another context. With a research-action program BiodivBalkans, it was decided to adapt this method to the Albanian situation, which was, in a way, the farthest from the reference model. From this adaptation process, three main results can be highlighted: (1) strengthening of arguments and examples to launch a "pastoral debate" in Albania (ignored until today) (2) recognition of the local knowledges of the Albanian breeders as an unavoidable element for a sustainable pastoral management (3) identification of eco-pastoral elements to be included in the Code of Practice of a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) on a kid goat meat from a local breed. De la France à l'Albanie, adaptation d'un diagnostic éco-pastoral; Le programme européen Life+ Mil'Ouv (pour MILieux OUVerts) a développé et mis en oeuvre une méthode innovante de diagnostic dont l'objectif est double : une gestion plus durable et plus efficace de l'environnement et des ressources naturelles. En France, de nombreuses méthodes de diagnostic existent, pratiquées sur le terrain par les techniciens et services de vulgarisation. Cependant ces méthodes sont souvent soit englobantes, soit très spécifiques et ne combinent pas les dimensions écologique et pastorale. Ainsi, Mil'Ouv a proposé un diagnostic éco-pastoral original, fondé sur une analyse multi-scalaire et un trio aux compétences complémentaires: naturaliste, spécialiste de l'élevage (pastoraliste), et éleveur lui/elle-même. Cette méthode a été conçue dans et pour la France méditerranéenne, par conséquent son extension et son adaptation à un autre contexte ont nécessité certaines adaptations d'ordre analytique et technique. Avec le programme de recherche-action BiodivBalkans, cette méthode a subi une série d'arrangements pour être adaptée à la situation albanaise, éloignée du modèle de référence. Trois principaux résultats sont attendus de cette adaptation: (1) la consolidation des arguments et des exemples pour lancer un «débat pastoral» en Albanie (jusqu'à présent inexistant) (2) la reconnaissance des savoirs locaux des éleveurs albanais en tant qu'éléments incontournables pour la gestion pastorale (3) l'identification des éléments éco-pastoraux pouvant être inclus dans le cahier des charges d'une IG sur la viande de cabri d'une race locale. Mots-clés. Pastoralisme-milieux ouverts-Albanie-France

Iron sulfate, in particular FeSO4&middot, 7H2O, is derived from titanium dioxide production and the steel pickling process. Regarding TiO2 manufacturing, the amount of the resultant FeSO4&middot, 7H2O can be as high as 6 tons per ton of produced TiO2, leading to a huge amount of ferrous sulfate heptahydrate, which is considered an environmental and economic concern for the titanium dioxide industry in European countries. The present paper focuses on the thermal treatment of ferrous sulfate (heptahydrate and monohydrate) samples under different conditions. Nonisothermal thermogravimetric (TG) analysis was used to study the behavior of iron sulfate samples at temperatures of up to 1000 &deg, C in Cl2 + O2, O2, and N2 atmospheres. Results showed that the dehydration of iron sulfate heptahydrate in nitrogen started at room temperature and resulted in iron sulfate tetrahydrate (FeSO4&middot, 4H2O). The ferrous sulfate monohydrate (FeSO4&middot, H2O) was formed at temperatures close to 150 &deg, C, while the anhydrous ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) was obtained when the samples were heated in nitrogen at over 225 &deg, C. The kinetic features of FeSO4 decomposition into Fe2O3 were revealed under isothermal conditions at temperatures ranging from 500 to 575 &deg, C. The decomposition of iron sulfate was characterized by an apparent activation energy of around 250 kJ/mol, indicating a significant temperature effect on the decomposition process. The obtained powder iron oxide could be directed to the agglomeration unit of iron and the steelmaking process.

The affiliations of the coauthors, Antony van der Ent and Shota Sakaguchi have been incorrectly published in the original publication of the article. The correct affiliations are provided in this correction.

Publication Inra prise en compte dans l'analyse bibliométrique des publications scientifiques mondiales sur les Fruits, les Légumes et la Pomme de terre. Période 2000-2012. http://prodinra.inra.fr/record/256699; Ultramafic soils are widespread in the Balkans. Albania and Greece are the richest in the number of endemics, including several hyperaccumulator species, growing on serpentine. The objectives of this study were to understand the potential of Ni hyperaccumulation of these species in close relation with the characteristics of their native soil environments. Collection of both plant samples (analysis of element concentrations in aerial parts) and soil samples (analysis of total elements, DTPA-extractable Ni, Fe, and Ni distribution in mineral phases) allowed evaluation of phenotypic efficacy in hyperaccumulating Ni. Nickel availability in soils is controlled by soil weathering and mineral-bearing phases. Unsurprisingly, the highest levels of Ni availability were associated with amorphous Fe-oxides in moderately weathered Cambisols or with high-exchange capacity clays in well-evolved Vertisols. The highest Ni concentrations in leaves were found in Alyssum murale in Pojska (Albania; 2.0%), Alyssum markgrafii in Gjegjan (Albania; 1.9%), Bornmuellera baldacii subsp. markgrafii in Gramsh (Albania; 1.4%), and Leptoplax emarginata in Trigona (Greece; 1.4%). We identified a new member in the Albanian Ni-hyperaccumulator flora: Thlaspi ochroleucum in Pojska (Albania: 0.13% Ni) and in Pishkash (0.14% Ni). With regard to Ni availability in soils, A. markgrafii (Albania) is the most efficient Ni-hyperaccumulator among all species. Alyssum murale, which is widespread in the serpentines of the Balkans, accumulates Ni, with leaf concentration being negatively correlated to total Ca content of soils regardless of Ni availability (DTPA extractable Ni). If this relationship is confirmed, it would mean that genetic variability is not the main factor that explains the hyperaccumulation performance of this species.

Serpentine (i.e. ultramafic) outcrops in Europe cover more than 10,000 km2 and have a low-fertility and low-productivity, making them unattractive for traditional agriculture. In general, these areas are slowly abandoned by local farmers, affected by strong rural exodus and landscapes undergo a process of closure. However, ultramafic landscapes have the potential to provide multiple ecosystem services that can contribute to Europe’s goals towards insuring food security, production of renewable raw materials and renewable energy. Phytomining (Agromining) aims at cultivating metal hyperaccumulator plants that are able to accumulate Ni and other strategic elements from metal-rich soils and transport them to the shoots (>1%), which can then be harvested as a bio-ore. Such metal-rich biomass can be used to recover highly valuable metals, e.g. nickel (Ni) and also to produce energy (heat, electricity).Nickel agromining can thus offer an eco-efficient alternative to classical pyro- or hydrometallurgical processes without disturbing the soil cover and the geology from soils and rocks that would be considered as low grade ores or sterile material for conventional mining methods. Phytomining agroecosystems can lead to better soil resource efficiency and can offer a fully integrated, new agromining agriculture that could cover thousands of km2 in Europe, benefit local communities with a sustainable rural development and provide a wide array of ecosystem services which will need to be optimised under a Life Cycle Assessment methodology:1.Production of bio-sourced metal products2.Production of energy biomass3.Restoration of soil fertility for conventional agriculture (Ni stress)4.Limiting Ni intake by local populations and farmers5.Use and conservation of local biodiversity (plant and soil fauna and microflora) as cultivated ecosystems6.Store carbon in cultivated soils7.Enhance pollination activity at landscape level.Nickel agromining could therefore change the economical balance in historically-disadvantaged ultramafic regions of Europe.

Phytoextraction and phytomining of trace elements from soils. XXXV Congresso Brasileiro de Ciência do Solo

International audience; BiodivBalkans project's ambition is to identify and protect agrobiodiversity as a driver for a sustainable agricultural development in Albanian mountainous regions. In order to address the territorial dimension of local value chains, Geographical Indications (GI) was identified as a possible adequate sign of sustainability and origin to be developed. The Hasi goat (endemic breed) and its kid goat meat were selected by the project in accordance with the Albanian Ministry of Agriculture, with the support of a national Development Agency and implemented by a local NGO. To inform a successful GI building process in Albania and direct support to the value chains with a territory-based action four main points of attention have been identified by the "reflexive pole" of the project: (1) a strong delimitation of the area of origin based on geo-morphological criteria, on the agrarian system history and contemporary evolutions; (2) a detailed goat flock analysis, to better understand the situation of the breed and its outputs in term of production and also to suggest, to the authorities, possible measures of support; (3) the marketing of the breed's products, with the specific attention to the local bottlenecks in order to secure the market premium already acknowledged among Albanian actors; (4) the environmental issue, grazing practices and their relation to the quality of meat and specification to be potentially included in the book of requirement (of the GI).; Lancer une Indication Géographique sur la viande de cabri en Albanie. Les questions de la chaîne de valeur territoriale provenant d'une analyse régionale du Has-Albanie du Nord Résumé. L'ambition du projet BiodivBalkans est d'identifier et de protéger l'agrobiodiversité comme moteur de développement agricole durable. Les indications géographiques (IG) ont été identifiées comme un label de durabilité et d'origine adéquat pour le développement des zones de montagne défavorisées en Albanie. La chè-vre du Has (race endémique) et sa viande de chevreau ont été sélectionnées par le projet en lien avec le Mi-nistère albanais de l'agriculture et le soutien d'une agence nationale de développement, puis mis en oeuvre par une ONG albanaise. Pour informer un processus fructueux de construction d'IG en Albanie et renforcer une chaîne de valeur territorialisée, quatre principaux points d'attention ont été identifiés par le « pole réflexif » du programme : (1) une délimitation précise de la zone d'origine basée sur des critères géomorphologiques, l'histoire agraire et ses évolutions contemporaines ; (2) une analyse détaillée du troupeau caprin, afin de mieux comprendre la situation de la race et ses résultats en termes de production, et de proposer aux autorités des mesures de soutien ; (3) la commercialisation de la viande issue de la race locale, avec une prise en compte des obstacles locaux afin de conforter le premium dont bénéficie cette viande auprès des acteurs albanais ; (4) la question environnementale, les pratiques pastorales en lien avec la qualité de la viande, éléments qui pourront être intégrés dans un cahier des charges. Mots-clés. Albanie-Labels de qualité-Indication géographique-Systèmes de production-Chaîne de valeur.

Recycling nickel from hyperaccumulator plants at the pilot scale. . Aquaconsoil 2015

A green process to produce a bio-sourced nickel salt.. SGC 2015 3rd International Symposium on Green Chemistry

Increasing human pressures and global environmental change may severely affect the diversity of species assemblages and associated ecosystem services. Despite the recent interest in phylogenetic and functional diversity, our knowledge on large spatio-temporal patterns of demersal fish diversity sampled by trawling remains still incomplete, notably in the Mediterranean Sea, one of the most threatened marine regions of the world. We investigated large spatio-temporal diversity patterns by analysing a dataset of 19,886 hauls from 10 to 800 m depth performed annually during the last two decades by standardised scientific bottom trawl field surveys across the Mediterranean Sea, within the MEDITS program. A multicomponent (eight diversity indices) and multi-scale (local assemblages, biogeographic regions to basins) approach indicates that only the two most traditional components (species richness and evenness) were sufficient to reflect patterns in taxonomic, phylogenetic or functional richness and divergence. We also put into question the use of widely computed indices that allow comparing directly taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional diversity within a unique mathematical framework. In addition, demersal fish assemblages sampled by trawl do not follow a continuous decreasing longitudinal/latitudinal diversity gradients (spatial effects explained up to 70.6% of deviance in regression tree and generalised linear models), for any of the indices and spatial scales analysed. Indeed, at both local and regional scales species richness was relatively high in the Iberian region, Malta, the Eastern Ionian and Aegean seas, meanwhile the Adriatic Sea and Cyprus showed a relatively low level. In contrast, evenness as well as taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional divergences did not show regional hotspots. All studied diversity components remained stable over the last two decades. Overall, our results highlight the need to use complementary diversity indices through different spatial scales when developing conservation strategies and defining delimitations for protected areas., SI

Large ultramafic areas exist in Albania, which could be suitable for phytomining with native Alyssummurale. We undertook a five-year field experiment on an ultramafic Vertisol, aimed at optimizing a low-cost Ni-phytoextraction crop of A. murale which is adapted to the Balkans. The following aspects were studied on 18-m(2) plots in natural conditions: the effect of (i) plant phenology and element distribution, (ii) plant nutrition and fertilization, (iii) plant cover and weed control and (iv), planting technique (natural cover vs. sown crop). The optimal harvest time was set at the mid-flowering stage when Ni concentration and biomass yield were highest. The application of N, P, and K fertilizers, and especially a split 100-kg ha(-1) N application, increased the density of A. murale against all other species. It significantly increased shoot yield, without reducing Ni concentration. In natural stands, the control of graminaceous weeds required the use of an anti-monocots herbicide. However, after the optimization of fertilization and harvest time, weed control procured little benefit. Finally, cropping sown A. murale was more efficient than enhancing native stands and gave higher biomass and phytoextraction yields; biomass yields progressively improved from 0.3 to 9.0 t ha(-1) and phytoextracted Ni increased from 1.7 to 105 kg ha(-1).

The Near East and the Caucasus regions are considered as gene and domestication centre for grapevine. In an earlier project “Conservation and Sustainable Use of Grapevine Genetic Resources in the Caucasus and Northern Black Sea Region” (2003-2007) it turned out that 2,654 accessions from autochthonous cultivars maintained by Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Russian Federation and Ukraine in ten grapevine collections may belong to 1,283 cultivars. But trueness to type assessment by morphology and genetic fingerprinting still needed to be done. In COST Action FA1003 a first step in that direction was initiated. The following countries participated: Albania, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Croatia, Georgia, Hungary, Latvia, Moldova, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Ukraine. Mainly Vitis vinifera accessions (1098 samples) and 76 Vitis sylvestris individuals were analyzed by nine SSR-markers (VVS2, VVMD5, VVMD7, VVMD25, VVMD27, VVMD28, VVMD32, VrZag62, VrZag79). Cultivar identity confirmation/rejection was attempted for 306 genotypes/cultivars by comparison of the generated genetic profiles with international SSR-marker databases and ampelographic studies. The outcome proved unambiguously the necessity of morphologic description and photos (a) for comparison with bibliography, (b) for a clear and explicit definition of the cultivar and (c) the detection of sampling errors and misnomers. From the 1,098 analyzed accessions, 997 turned out to be indigenous to the participating countries. The remaining 101 accessions were Western European cultivars. The 997 fingerprints of indigenous accessions resulted in 658 unique profiles/cultivars. From these 353 (54 %) are only maintained in the countries of origin and 300 (46 %) unique genotypes exist only once in the Eastern European collections. For these 300 genotypes duplicate preservation needs to be initiated. In addition, the high ratio of non redundant genetic material of Eastern European origin suggests an immense unexplored diversity. Documentation of the entire information in the European Vitis Database will assist both germplasm maintenance and documentation of cultivar specific data., VITIS - Journal of Grapevine Research, Vol. 54 (2015): Vitis (Special Issue)

International audience; Ultramafic vertisols cover large areas in Albania and offer opportunities for phytomining. We undertook a field experiment with native Alyssum murale on two representative Vertisols at a distance of 20km from each other (Pojske and Domosdove, Albania), to test the effect of planting density (transplanted seedlings) on a phytomining cropping system. Both areas were cleared in late summer 2012 and then ploughed and the soils were characterised. At Domosdove, an area of 0.5ha was planted with local native seedlings at a density of six plants per square metre in September 2012. Spontaneous plants that had germinated in Spring 2012 were left to grow without any competition from other plants on a second 0.1-ha plot at Domosdove. All plots were weeded manually in the autumn of 2012 and spring of 2013. Individual plants occupied similar to 1m(2) at maturity. At Pojske, an area of 0.3ha was also planted in September 2012 with local native seedlings of A. murale at a density of four plants per square metre. Plants grown at initial densities of four and six plants per square metre did not fully cover the ground; gaps were filled in naturally by a second spontaneous generation of A. murale seedlings (recruits) that had germinated in Autumn 2012. Other weeds were eliminated with herbicides. At Domosdove, at densities of one and six plants and at Pojske of four plants per square metre, the biomass yield was 10, 5 and 10tha(-1), respectively. Concentration of phytoextracted nickel was 77, 41 and 112kgha(-1). We suggest that a density of four plants per square metre is suitable for phytoextraction with native populations of A. murale. A. murale can be a weed itself and lower the nickel phytoextraction yield. Plants responded differently in their native environment than in previous field trials in North America.

This report is based on information collected from a face-to-face survey of more than 1 000 farmers from three regions of Albania (namely Berat, Elbasan and Lezhë To identify a representative sample of Albanian farming systems, a three-step sample design was used. A group of 11 variables dealing with the socio-economic characteristics of farms was selected to build up the farming system typology. Two typologies are used: one for the whole sample (three regions) and a second one for each region. The differences between the two typologies are considered to be a proxy indicator of different characteristics of farming systems in each region. The farm types identified are (1) poly-culture, mainly for the market; (2) leisure farms; (3) arable crops; (4) fruit trees; (5) self-sufficient; and (6) livestock. The farm typology is slightly different for the regions of Berat and Lezhë. The farm types’ strategies are constructed according to the land, infrastructure facilities and the investment availability of farms. Non-agricultural incomes (remittances, income from the construction, trade, pensions, etc.) appear to provide an important economic support for the farm household. Farming structures in rural areas are characterised by the use of more labour and lower inputs. The farm types that tend to specialise in one activity are not always those that make the best use of labour and land. Farming does not provide enough income to repay the work put in at the official minimum wage level. Non-agricultural work is better paid. Albanian farms provide at least a minimal income that is enough to keep the household members above the threshold of extreme poverty. The farm types that base their incomes on agricultural activities are poorer than those that base their income on non-agricultural activities. Income structures and the low incomes generated by work in agriculture suggests that rural migration towards urban areas and abroad is a phenomenon that will persist into the future., JRC.J.4-Agriculture and Life Sciences in the Economy

International audience; Pine processionary moth, Thaumetopea pityocampa, is a model insect indicator of global warming, the northwards and upwards range expansion of this Mediterranean species being directly associated with the recent warming up. The knowledge about the drivers of moth expansion is synthesized. A first standardized mapping of the northern expansion edge, from Western Europe to Turkey, is presented, then detailed for 20 countries of Europe, Asia Minor and North Africa, including future trends. Additional data about the responses of the other Thaumetopoea species are given. Finally, the chapter points out the importance of the man-mediated introductions in the expansion process.

New information for phytoextraction and phytomining. . 11th International Phytotechnologies Conference

International audience; This study aimed at relating the variability of Ni biogeochemistry along the ultramafic toposequence to pedogenesis and soil mineralogy. Hypereutric Cambisols dominate upslope; Cambic Vertisols and Fluvic Cambisols occur downslope. The soil mineralogy showed abundance of primary serpentine all over the sequence. It is predominant upslope but secondary smectites dominate in the Vertisols. Free Fe-oxides are abundant in all soils but slightly more abundant in the upslope soils. Whereas serpentines hold Ni in a similar and restricted range in every soil (approx. 0.3 %), Ni contents in smectites may vary a lot and Mg-rich and Al-poor smectites in the Vertisol could hold up to 4.9 % Ni. Ni was probably adsorbed onto amorphous Fe-oxides and was also exchangeable in secondary smectites. High availability of Ni in soils was confirmed by DTPA extractions. However, it varied significantly along the toposequence, being higher in upslope soils, where Ni-bearing amorphous Fe-oxides were abundant and total organic carbon higher and sensibly lower downslope on the Vertisols: Ni-DTPA varied from 285 mg kg(-1) in the surface of soil I (upslope) to 95.9 mg kg(-1) in the surface of Fluvic Cambisols. Concentration of Ni in Alyssum murale shoots varied from 0.7 % (Hypereutric Cambisols) to 1.4 % (Hypereutric Vertisol). Amazingly, Ni uptake by A. murale was not correlated to Ni-DTPA, suggesting the existence of specific edaphic conditions that affect the ecophysiology of A. murale upslope.

Over the past decades, reports concerning the hyperaccumulating flora of the Balkans have been published either from herbarium specimens or from field-collected specimens. Most of the reports focused on the single accumulation of Ni. Progressively, other elements have been taken into account when reporting for field-sampled hyperaccumulator plants. Only very recently, it was discovered that Alyssum murale and other Brassicaceae had an extreme accumulation potential for K, although this element is defficient in serpentine soils. After a few surveys in Albania and Continental Greece, we now have a good vision of the hyperaccumulator diversity. We even report a new taxon that had never been mentioned before as a Ni-hyperaccumulator. Two families are present in the ultramafic areas of the two countries (Brassicaceae and Asteraceae) and several genus for the Brassicaceae family (i.e. Alyssum, Bornmuellera, Leptoplax and Noccaea). Two species of the Centaurea genus represent the Asteraceae hyperaccumulators. Continental Greece makes a transition between Turkey and the rest of the Balkan peninsula. We have reported the main characteristics of the fertility of the soils on which they were collected and have analysed full composition of cations in the plant parts (stem, leaves, reproductive parts). Several locations for each taxon are reported whenever possible.Results clearly indicate different behaviours. Some species (e.g. Bornmuellera tymphaea and Leptoplax emarginata) are able to accumulate more Ni than others and this seems to be related to a lower Ca uptake. Calcium and potassium are taken up in similar concentrations than Ni and the three elements are always higher than Mg. A reasonable hypothesis to explain the higher levels of Ni accumulation is probably a lower uptake of the other cations (i.e. Ca and K) and probably relies on either genetic or phenotypic differences. The identification of the potential of hyperaccumulator taxa for phytoextraction has to be interpretated in a more complete way by analysing the cation absorption balance in whole plants. Soil analysis and level of available Ni, Ca and K has also to be taken into account to fully characterise the environement conditions in which the plant has performed cation accumulation.

International audience; Huge areas in the world are covered by soils containing high contents of metal. Phytomining aims at recovering these metals by growing hyperaccumulating plants and treating the metal-rich biomass by pyrometallurgical or hydrometallurgical processes. This contribution is an overview of the results we have obtained for several years in Ni phytomining. Hyperaccumulating plants, Alyssum murale, are grown in the Balkans (Albania) and high Ni yields are reached: 100 kg Ni per ha. Once harvested and dried, A. murale biomass is incinerated and the ashes are treated by a hydrometallurgical process that we have designed and patented to produce a high value added salt: sulfate and ammonium nickel double salt hexahydrate, used for electrolytic surface treatment. The process steps are described and the main results presented. Our results have demonstrated the feasibility of the synthesis of this nickel double salt after phytoextraction. This process is currently up-scaled to the pilot scale. A start-up project has been launched to develop this activity with two directions: the production of Ni salt and consulting activity for phytoextraction.