Remote Sensing and Bioaccumulation Factor Analyses to Assess Vegetation Health and Heavy Metal Dynamics in Agroforestry Systems.

This study investigates vegetation health and heavy metal dynamics within agroforestry systems through the integration of remote sensing indices, heavy metal concentration measurements, and bioaccumulation factor (BAF) analyses. Three cultivated species—Casuarina equisetifolia (7–10 years), Eucalyptus camaldulensis (7–10 years), and Sesbania. sesban (1–2–3 years)—were evaluated across different growth stages. Remote sensing indices, including ARI2, NDVI, RE, and SR, indicated denser and healthier vegetation in younger plots, particularly for S. sesban aged 1 and 2 years. In contrast, older plots featuring C. equisetifolia (7–10 years), E. camaldulensis (7–10 years), and S. sesban (3 years) exhibited sparser growth, reduced productivity, and elevated stress signals associated with micronutrient deficiencies (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Co), especially in leaf tissues. BAF analysis identified C. equisetifolia (7 years) as a hyperaccumulator of Mn, Cu, Zn, and Pb, underscoring its potential for phytoremediation. Both E. camaldulensis and S. sesban demonstrated variable metal uptake capacities, influenced by age and specific plant parts. Soil analyses revealed heavy metal concentrations within safe limits, and low PLI with localized elevations attributed to wastewater irrigation practices.