Strontium isotope mapping in Belgium: a detailed survey of plant samples

A total of 591 plant samples, including grasses, shrubs, and trees, were collected from 189 unique locations across Belgium using a systematic high-density grid mapping technique. The selection of plants with varying root lengths ensured a comprehensive representation of the bioavailable strontium at each site. The study revealed significant variability in strontium isotope ratios (⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr) across Belgium, reflecting the diverse underlying lithology and geological processes, such as tectonics and weathering, that have shaped the landscape. These findings provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of strontium isotopes in Belgium, laying a foundation for future research in archaeology, ecology, environmental studies, food sciences, and forensics.