Plant Phylogeny and the Remediation of Persistent Organic Pollutants

The purpose of this chapter is twofold. First, we review the relevant literature regarding the phytoremediation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) as it relates to plant phylogeny. The phytoremediation of POPs is a rapidly developing field of research and as such, a review of the literature is important for understanding the development of experimental methodologies. Second, we present in-depth coverage of the methods we have used for the analysis of weathered POPs in both soil and vegetative tissues. Although the protocols described pertain to the specific POPs cited, the techniques could readily be used for many other contaminants.