Element accumulation patterns and bioindicator potential of Soldanella carpatica along a montane–alpine gradient

Abstract This study analyzed the multielement composition of Soldanella carpatica and the surrounding soils along a montane–alpine gradient (1137–1861 m a.s.l.) across seven sampling sites in the Tatra Mountains (Western Carpathians, Slovakia) to understand how altitude with associated habitat conditions, seasonality, and soil chemistry influence element accumulation and distribution patterns. The aim was to explore multielement relationships and possible environmental drivers affecting the upta