Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Currently, scientific inquiries conducted by numerous research groups often focus on expanding our knowledge of the influence of the effects of numerous factors that destabilize plant growth and development. This includes both wild species and those used by humans for various purposes, primarily as a source of food, animal feed, metabolites for human and livestock welfare, wood and various byproducts. Plants are an important material used in landscaping and are essential in some technologies for remediation of various pollutants from different environmental compartments.

The demand for non-ferrous metals, such as gold, silver, platinum, copper, zinc, lead, nickel, tin, titanium, cadmium, beryllium, bismuth, cobalt, cerium, mercury, chromium, vanadium, tungsten or zirconium is still very high in various fields of economic activity due to their resistance to rust and corrosion. Most of these metals are useful in electronic equipment, electrical power cables or metal constructions, and many other industrial applications. Therefore, economically viable ore deposits containing these elements continue to be mined around the world. The extraction of ores, their processing and further industrial production is frequently associated with serious environmental pollution. Agroecosystems in particular receive large amounts of heavy metals through water or air, resulting in contamination of crops. An inevitable consequence is an increased incidence of human diseases such as cancer or serious diseases of cardiovascular system.

In the era of the Green Deal, we should only use ecologically justified technologies for environmental remediation, including phytoremediation techniques that utilise woody and herbaceous plants. Nevertheless, the methodology of this biological process should be tailored to specific in situ conditions, especially when the matrix (soil or water) is contaminated with a mixture of pollutants and the plants are exposed to additional stress factors assoil water deficiency, soil salinity or temperature stress. Alternative approaches include the use of soil amendments, the biotization or mycorrhization of plants to increase their tolerance and thus survival under such harsh growing conditions. These aspects of remediation technology are what we should now focus on to significantly reduce the human population’s exposure to contaminated food.

The purpose of this topic is to collect and present the contributions of active groups engaged in basic and applied research on all aspects of plant functioning under stress, especially in terms of effective ecosystem pollution control. Research articles, case-studies, reviews and viewpoints are all welcome. Even incomplete results and any feedback will be helpful to the entire scientific community involved in research on the above-mentioned topics.

Prof. Dr. Luigi Sanita' di Toppi
Prof. Dr. Ewa Joanna Hanus-Fajerska
Prof. Dr. Martin Backor
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Agriculture agriculture	3.6	3.6	2011	17.7 Days	CHF 2600
Agronomy agronomy	3.7	5.2	2011	15.8 Days	CHF 2600
Forests forests	2.9	4.5	2010	16.9 Days	CHF 2600
Plants plants	4.5	5.4	2012	15.3 Days	CHF 2700
Stresses stresses	-	-	2021	17.1 Days	CHF 1000

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Published Papers (22 papers)

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14 pages, 1994 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Mechanisms of Copper Toxicity and Tolerance in the Aquatic Moss Taxiphyllum barbieri

by Martin Bačkor, Michal Goga, Pragya Singh and Viktória Tuptová

Plants 2023, 12(20), 3607; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12203607 - 18 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1187

Abstract

Aquatic habitats are very frequently polluted with different kinds of xenobiotics, including heavy metals. For biomonitoring studies of aquatic pollution, algae are frequently used, as they do not contain protective cuticle on the surface of their thalli and can accumulate pollutants over the [...] Read more.

Aquatic habitats are very frequently polluted with different kinds of xenobiotics, including heavy metals. For biomonitoring studies of aquatic pollution, algae are frequently used, as they do not contain protective cuticle on the surface of their thalli and can accumulate pollutants over the whole surface of thalli. However, this is a feature of most cryptogams. For this reason, we assessed the sensitivity of the aquatic moss Taxiphyllum barbieri (Java moss) to copper excess in a short-term study. Moss T. barbieri belongs to the common aquatic plants originating from Southeast Asia. To test the sensitivity (or tolerance) of the moss to excess Cu, selected concentrations (50, 250 and 500 µM) were employed in our 24 h studies. Total and intracellular Cu accumulation positively correlated with Cu availability in the water. This total and intracellular Cu accumulation was negatively correlated with decreased intracellular K content. Excess Cu negatively affected the composition of assimilation pigments and soluble proteins. Cu caused increased peroxidation of membrane lipids assessed using TBARS assay. Excess Cu decreased GSH to GSSG ratio and ascorbic acid content. We did not observe phytochelatin synthesis in this moss. The roles of selected amino acids, their intermediates and derivatives, as well as S-containing nucleosides and phenolic acids in Cu homeostasis and toxicity or tolerance were evaluated. We assume that this moss has potential for future employment in water quality evaluation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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50 pages, 7084 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Analysis of Heavy Metal Impacts on Cereal Crop Growth and Development in Contaminated Soils

by Ionela Cătălina Vasilachi, Vasile Stoleru and Maria Gavrilescu

Agriculture 2023, 13(10), 1983; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13101983 - 12 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3770

Abstract

The impact of heavy metal presence in soil on cereal crops is a growing concern, posing significant challenges to global food security and environmental sustainability. Cereal crops, vital sources of nutrition, face the risk of contamination with toxic heavy metals released into the [...] Read more.

The impact of heavy metal presence in soil on cereal crops is a growing concern, posing significant challenges to global food security and environmental sustainability. Cereal crops, vital sources of nutrition, face the risk of contamination with toxic heavy metals released into the environment through human activities. This paper explores key aspects requiring thorough investigation to foster innovation and understand intricate interactions between heavy metals and cereals. Visible symptoms and physiological changes resulting from heavy metal contamination, such as chlorosis and stunted growth, demand further research to devise targeted mitigation strategies and sustainable agricultural practices. Root barrier formation, mycorrhizal symbiosis, and metal-binding proteins emerge as critical defence mechanisms for combating heavy metal stress, offering opportunities for developing metal-tolerant cereal varieties. Research on metal bioavailability and food safety implications in cereal grains is vital to safeguard human health. This paper reveals that multidisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge technologies are essential for promoting innovation beyond the state of the art in elucidating and mitigating the impacts of heavy metals on cereal crops. Genetic and breeding approaches show promise in developing metal-tolerant cereal varieties, while agronomic practices and soil amendments can reduce metal bioavailability and toxicity. Unravelling the complex mechanisms underlying heavy metal uptake and tolerance is essential for sustainable cereal agriculture and worldwide food sustainability. Embracing the challenges of heavy metal pollution through proactive research and collaboration can secure a resilient future for cereal crops amid evolving environmental conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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18 pages, 2631 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Cadmium Accumulation in Cacao Plants (Theobroma cacao L.) under Drought Stress

by Antonio Ortiz-Álvarez, Stanislav Magnitskiy, Elías Alexander Silva-Arero, Caren Rodríguez-Medina, Xavier Argout and Ángela María Castaño-Marín

Agronomy 2023, 13(10), 2490; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13102490 - 27 Sep 2023

Viewed by 2105

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine Cd accumulation under water-deficit conditions by young cacao plants. The study was conducted under greenhouse conditions. Two full-sib families (IMC67 × PA121 and SCA6 × PA121), obtained through controlled crosses, and an open pollinated half-sib [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to determine Cd accumulation under water-deficit conditions by young cacao plants. The study was conducted under greenhouse conditions. Two full-sib families (IMC67 × PA121 and SCA6 × PA121), obtained through controlled crosses, and an open pollinated half-sib seedling family of IMC67, widely used as rootstock in Colombia, were employed. Plants were grown in Cd-contaminated soil (0.356 mg kg⁻¹) without external sources of the metal. They were subjected to water deficit by suspending irrigation for consecutive periods of 19 and 27 days (D19 and D27), followed by rehydration. Water stress reduced leaf water potential (Ψ_leaf) with values from −1.51 to −2.09 MPa, with full-sib family SCA6 × PA121 being the most tolerant to water deficit. Cd concentration was influenced by biomass reduction (observed in IMC67 × PA121 and SCA6 × PA121) and transpiration rate (evident in IMC67) caused by water deficit. Full-sib progenies IMC67 × PA121 and SCA6 × PA121 accumulated more Cd in the plants than open pollinated IMC67, with higher Cd accumulation in leaves. The translocation factor (TF) revealed that the aboveground organs of the progenies were enriched with Cd (TF > 4). Water deficit increased Cd translocation from roots to leaves in IMC67 × PA121 and IMC 67, while there were no significant changes in SCA6 × PA121. Full-sib family SCA6 × PA121 stood out as the most promising progenies due to their water-stress tolerance and Cd accumulation stability. This study introduces a discussion about the influence of water stress on Cd accumulation in Theobroma cacao. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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22 pages, 3832 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Abscisic Acid: Metabolism, Signaling, and Crosstalk with Other Phytohormones under Heavy Metal Stress

by Ambreen Bano, Kratika Singh, Surendra Pratap Singh and Pooja Sharma

Stresses 2023, 3(4), 665-686; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses3040046 - 22 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1148

Abstract

Heavy metal (HM) stress poses a global risk to crops, ecological systems, and human health. It disrupts cellular ionic equilibrium, cell membrane integrity, metabolic balance, and the activities of enzymes and proteins, severely impacting physiological processes, plant development, and agricultural productivity. Although plants [...] Read more.

Heavy metal (HM) stress poses a global risk to crops, ecological systems, and human health. It disrupts cellular ionic equilibrium, cell membrane integrity, metabolic balance, and the activities of enzymes and proteins, severely impacting physiological processes, plant development, and agricultural productivity. Although plants naturally activate defense mechanisms to mitigate the adverse effects of HM stress, they cannot completely prevent them. Phytohormones counter HM toxicity, aiding growth. External application and internal regulation via signaling/biosynthesis genes offer defense against HM-induced damage. A pivotal signaling molecule in plant adaptive responses to environmental stressors, including HM toxicity, is abscisic acid (ABA). Despite ABA’s role in abiotic stress responses such as drought and salinity, its function and crosstalk with other phytohormones under HM stress remain poorly understood. Nonetheless, exogenously applied ABA serves as a strategic approach to enhancing plants’ resistance to HM toxicity by promoting osmolyte accumulation and reinforcing antioxidant activity. ABA significantly regulates various plant growth and metabolic activities under diverse environmental conditions. This review highlights the effects of HM stress on plants and explores ABA involvement in production, signaling, catabolism, and transport within plant tissues. The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the complex interplay between the metabolism of ABA, its signaling, and its interactions with other phytohormones (e.g., auxins, gibberellins, and ethylene) during HM exposure. Furthermore, we delve into the function of ABA to mitigate HM stress and elucidate its interactions with other phytohormones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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24 pages, 6872 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Phytoremediation Potential of the Sinapis alba Plant Using Extractable Metal Concentrations

by Nicoleta Vasilache, Elena Diacu, Sorin Cananau, Anda Gabriela Tenea and Gabriela Geanina Vasile

Plants 2023, 12(17), 3123; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12173123 - 30 Aug 2023

Viewed by 956

Abstract

Testing the feasibility of soil phytoremediation requires the development of models applicable on a large scale. Phytoremediation mechanisms include advanced rhizosphere biodegradation, phytoaccumulation, phytodegradation, and phytostabilization. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytoremediation potential of the Sinapis alba. Identification of [...] Read more.

Testing the feasibility of soil phytoremediation requires the development of models applicable on a large scale. Phytoremediation mechanisms include advanced rhizosphere biodegradation, phytoaccumulation, phytodegradation, and phytostabilization. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytoremediation potential of the Sinapis alba. Identification of the factors influencing the extraction process of metals from contaminated soils in a laboratory system suitable for evaluating the phytoavailability of these metals in three solutions (M1-CaCl₂, M2-DTPA, and M3-EDTA) included the following: distribution of metals in solution (Kd), soil properties and mobile fractions (SOC, CEC, pH), response surface methodology (RSM), and principal component analysis (PCA). The evaluation of the phytoremediation potential of the Sinapis alba plant was assessed using bioaccumulation coefficients (BACs). The accumulation of heavy metals in plants corresponds to the concentrations and soluble fractions of metals in the soil. Understanding the extractable metal fractions and the availability of metals in the soil is important for soil management. Extractable soluble fractions may be more advantageous in total metal content as a predictor of bioconcentrations of metals in plants. In this study, the amount of metal available in the most suitable extractors was used to predict the absorption of metals in the Sinapis alba plant. Multiple regression prediction models have been developed for estimating the amounts of As and Cd in plant organs. The performance of the predictive models generated based on the experimental data was evaluated by the adjusted coefficient of determination (aR2), model efficiency (RMSE), Durbin–Watson (DW) test, and Shapiro–Wilk (SW) test. The accumulation of the analyzed metals followed the pattern Root > Pods > Leaves > Seeds, stems > Flowers for As and Leaves > Root > Stem > Pods > Seeds > Flowers for Cd in soil contaminated with different metal concentrations. The obtained results showed a phytoremediation potential of the Sinapis alba plant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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17 pages, 1022 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Heavy Metal Induced Oxidative Stress Mitigation and ROS Scavenging in Plants

by Sheikh Mansoor, Asif Ali, Navneet Kour, Julia Bornhorst, Khadiga AlHarbi, Jörg Rinklebe, Diaa Abd El Moneim, Parvaiz Ahmad and Yong Suk Chung

Plants 2023, 12(16), 3003; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12163003 - 20 Aug 2023

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2321

Abstract

Although trace elements are essential for life, environmental contamination due to metal accumulation and overuse in various sectors, such as healthcare, agriculture, industry, and cosmetics, poses significant health concerns. Exposure of plants to heavy metals leads to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species [...] Read more.

Although trace elements are essential for life, environmental contamination due to metal accumulation and overuse in various sectors, such as healthcare, agriculture, industry, and cosmetics, poses significant health concerns. Exposure of plants to heavy metals leads to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to their ability to change mitochondrial membrane permeability and restrict the action of ROS clearance enzymes in the cellular antioxidant system. The interaction of ROS with cellular membranes, heavy-metal-induced interactions directly or indirectly with different macromolecules, and signaling pathways leads to the accumulation of environmental pollutants and oxidative stress in exposed organisms. The heavy metal–ROS–cell signaling axis affects various pathological processes such as ATP depletion, excess ROS production, mitochondrial respiratory chain damage, decoupling of oxidative phosphorylation, and mitochondrial death. This review focuses on discussing the toxic effects of different heavy metals on plants, with particular emphasis on oxidative stress, its consequences, and mitigation strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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12 pages, 953 KiB  

Open AccessViewpoint

Silicon in Plants: Alleviation of Metal(loid) Toxicity and Consequential Perspectives for Phytoremediation

by Daniel Puppe, Danuta Kaczorek, Mathias Stein and Jörg Schaller

Plants 2023, 12(13), 2407; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12132407 - 21 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1382

Abstract

For the majority of higher plants, silicon (Si) is considered a beneficial element because of the various favorable effects of Si accumulation in plants that have been revealed, including the alleviation of metal(loid) toxicity. The accumulation of non-degradable metal(loid)s in the environment strongly [...] Read more.

For the majority of higher plants, silicon (Si) is considered a beneficial element because of the various favorable effects of Si accumulation in plants that have been revealed, including the alleviation of metal(loid) toxicity. The accumulation of non-degradable metal(loid)s in the environment strongly increased in the last decades by intensified industrial and agricultural production with negative consequences for the environment and human health. Phytoremediation, i.e., the use of plants to extract and remove elemental pollutants from contaminated soils, has been commonly used for the restoration of metal(loid)-contaminated sites. In our viewpoint article, we briefly summarize the current knowledge of Si-mediated alleviation of metal(loid) toxicity in plants and the potential role of Si in the phytoremediation of soils contaminated with metal(loid)s. In this context, a special focus is on metal(loid) accumulation in (soil) phytoliths, i.e., relatively stable silica structures formed in plants. The accumulation of metal(loid)s in phytoliths might offer a promising pathway for the long-term sequestration of metal(loid)s in soils. As specific phytoliths might also represent an important carbon sink in soils, phytoliths might be a silver bullet in the mitigation of global change. Thus, the time is now to combine Si/phytolith and phytoremediation research. This will help us to merge the positive effects of Si accumulation in plants with the advantages of phytoremediation, which represents an economically feasible and environmentally friendly way to restore metal(loid)-contaminated sites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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30 pages, 1652 KiB  

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Heavy Metal Contamination in Agricultural Soil: Environmental Pollutants Affecting Crop Health

by Abdur Rashid, Brian J. Schutte, April Ulery, Michael K. Deyholos, Soum Sanogo, Erik A. Lehnhoff and Leslie Beck

Agronomy 2023, 13(6), 1521; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13061521 - 31 May 2023

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 16708

Abstract

Heavy metals and metalloids (HMs) are environmental pollutants, most notably cadmium, lead, arsenic, mercury, and chromium. When HMs accumulate to toxic levels in agricultural soils, these non-biodegradable elements adversely affect crop health and productivity. The toxicity of HMs on crops depends upon factors [...] Read more.

Heavy metals and metalloids (HMs) are environmental pollutants, most notably cadmium, lead, arsenic, mercury, and chromium. When HMs accumulate to toxic levels in agricultural soils, these non-biodegradable elements adversely affect crop health and productivity. The toxicity of HMs on crops depends upon factors including crop type, growth condition, and developmental stage; nature of toxicity of the specific elements involved; soil physical and chemical properties; occurrence and bioavailability of HM ions in the soil solution; and soil rhizosphere chemistry. HMs can disrupt the normal structure and function of cellular components and impede various metabolic and developmental processes. This review evaluates: (1) HM contamination in arable lands through agricultural practices, particularly due to chemical fertilizers, pesticides, livestock manures and compost, sewage-sludge-based biosolids, and irrigation; (2) factors affecting the bioavailability of HM elements in the soil solution, and their absorption, translocation, and bioaccumulation in crop plants; (3) mechanisms by which HM elements directly interfere with the physiological, biochemical, and molecular processes in plants, with particular emphasis on the generation of oxidative stress, the inhibition of photosynthetic phosphorylation, enzyme/protein inactivation, genetic modifications, and hormonal deregulation, and indirectly through the inhibition of soil microbial growth, proliferation, and diversity; and (4) visual symptoms of highly toxic non-essential HM elements in plants, with an emphasis on crop plants. Finally, suggestions and recommendations are made to minimize crop losses from suspected HM contamination in agricultural soils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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21 pages, 2281 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

A Commercial Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Inoculum Alleviated the Effects of Acid Water on Lupinus angustifolius Grown in a Sterilized Mining Dump

by Aurora Neagoe and Virgil Iordache

Plants 2023, 12(10), 1983; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12101983 - 15 May 2023

Viewed by 1324

Abstract

Lupinus species have been sporadically reported to be colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The interactions between AMF and lupine plants could also be non-symbiotic, from positive to negative, as controlled by the stress conditions of the plant. The goal of the study [...] Read more.

Lupinus species have been sporadically reported to be colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The interactions between AMF and lupine plants could also be non-symbiotic, from positive to negative, as controlled by the stress conditions of the plant. The goal of the study was to reveal the existence of such positive interactions and provide preliminary data for a myco-phytoremediation technology of mining dumps using L. angustifolius as a first crop. The objective was to test the hypothesis that the AMF inoculation of an acidified dump material contaminated with heavy metals would improve the growth of L. angustifolius and decrease oxidative stress. The design consisted of a one-month bivariate pot experiment with plants grown in a mining dump soil inoculated and not inoculated with a commercial AMF inoculum sequestered in expanded clay and watered with acidic and neutral water. There was no AMF root colonization under the experimental conditions, but under neutral and acidic water conditions, the phosphorus concentrations in roots and leaves increased, and the superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities significantly decreased due to AMF inoculation. The increase in leaf phosphorus concentration was correlated with the decrease in peroxidase activity. The fresh weight of shoots and leaves significantly increased due to the commercial inoculum (under acidic water conditions). At the end of the experiment, the ammonium concentration in the substrate was higher in the inoculated treatments than in the not inoculated ones, and the concentrations of many elements in the dump material decreased compared to the start of the experiment. A comprehensive discussion of the potential mechanisms underlying the effects of the commercial AMF inoculum on the non-host L. angustifolius is completed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 1470 KiB)

19 pages, 1531 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Seed Priming with Triacontanol Alleviates Lead Stress in Phaseolus vulgaris L. (Common Bean) through Improving Nutritional Orchestration and Morpho-Physiological Characteristics

by Shakil Ahmed, Minahil Amjad, Rehana Sardar, Manzer H. Siddiqui and Mohammad Irfan

Plants 2023, 12(8), 1672; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12081672 - 17 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1299

Abstract

Worldwide, crop productivity is highly influenced by heavy metal toxicity. Lead (Pb) the is second-most toxic heavy metal that has high persistence in soil. Lead is translocated in plants from rhizosphere soil and enters the food chain, where it poses a significant hazard [...] Read more.

Worldwide, crop productivity is highly influenced by heavy metal toxicity. Lead (Pb) the is second-most toxic heavy metal that has high persistence in soil. Lead is translocated in plants from rhizosphere soil and enters the food chain, where it poses a significant hazard to the health of humans. In the present investigation, seed priming with triacontanol (Tria) was used to mitigate Pb phytotoxicity in Phaseolus vulgaris L. (common bean). Seeds were primed with different concentrations of Tria (control, 10 µmol L⁻¹, 20 µmol L⁻¹, 30 µmol L⁻¹) solutions. The pot experiment was carried out by sowing Tria-primed seeds in contaminated soil with 400 mg kg⁻¹ Pb. Lead alone induced a decrease in the rate of germination and a significant reduction in biomass and growth of P. vulgaris as compared to the control. All these negative effects were reversed by Tria-primed seeds. Proliferation of photosynthetic pigments was observed 1.8-fold by Tria under Pb stress. Primed seeds with 20 µmol L⁻¹ Tria enhanced stomatal conductance (gs), photosynthetic rate (A), transpiration rate (Ei), and uptake of mineral contents (Mg⁺², Zn⁺², Na⁺, and K⁺) and reduced Pb accumulation in seedlings. Tria caused a 1.3-fold increase in osmotic regulator proline synthesis to alleviate Pb stress. Phenolics, soluble protein, and DPPH free radical scavenging activity were enhanced by Tria application, suggesting that exogenous Tria could be employed to improve plant tolerance to Pb stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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16 pages, 2973 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Synergistic Effects of Water Management and Silicon Foliar Spraying on the Uptake and Transport Efficiency of Cadmium in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

by Xiaoyun Huang, Chengwu Fan, Dongyi Xie, Hongxing Chen, Song Zhang, Hui Chen, Song Qin, Tianling Fu, Tengbing He and Zhenran Gao

Plants 2023, 12(6), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12061414 - 22 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1322

Abstract

To study the synergistic effects of water management and silicon (Si) foliar spraying on the uptake and transport of cadmium (Cd) in rice, we designed four treatments: conventional intermittent flooding + no Si foliar spraying (CK), continuous flooding throughout the growth stage + [...] Read more.

To study the synergistic effects of water management and silicon (Si) foliar spraying on the uptake and transport of cadmium (Cd) in rice, we designed four treatments: conventional intermittent flooding + no Si foliar spraying (CK), continuous flooding throughout the growth stage + no Si foliar spraying (W), conventional intermittent flooding + Si foliar spraying (Si) and continuous flooding throughout the growth stage + Si foliar spraying (WSi). The results show that WSi treatment reduced the uptake and translocation of Cd by rice and significantly reduced the brown rice Cd content, with no effect on rice yield. Compared with CK, the Si treatment increased the net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs) and transpiration rate (Tr) of rice by 6.5–9.4%, 10.0–16.6% and 2.1–16.8%, respectively. The W treatment decreased these parameters by 20.5–27.9%, 8.6–26.8% and 13.3–23.3%, respectively, and the WSi treatment decreased them by 13.1–21.2%, 3.7–22.3% and 2.2–13.7%, respectively. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activity decreased by 6.7–20.6% and 6.5–9.5%, respectively, following the W treatment. Following the Si treatment, SOD and POD activity increased by 10.2–41.1% and 9.3–25.1%, respectively, and following the WSi treatment, they increased by 6.5–18.1% and 2.6–22.4%, respectively. Si foliar spraying ameliorated the detrimental effects of continuous flooding throughout the growth stage on photosynthesis and antioxidant enzyme activity. We conclude that synergistic continuous flooding throughout the growth stage, combined with Si foliar spraying, can significantly block Cd uptake and translocation and is therefore an effective means of reducing the accumulation of Cd in brown rice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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11 pages, 18477 KiB  

Open AccessCommunication

Alleviation of Hg-, Cr-, Cu-, and Zn-Induced Heavy Metals Stress by Exogenous Sodium Nitroprusside in Rice Plants

by Chrizostom Julius Niyoifasha, Birhanu Miressa Borena, Irasapa Tanimu Ukob, Phan Ngoc Minh, Tiba Nazar Ibrahim Al Azzawi, Muhammad Imran, Sajid Ali, Anousone Inthavong, Bong-Gyu Mun, In-Jung Lee, Murtaza Khan and Byung-Wook Yun

Plants 2023, 12(6), 1299; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12061299 - 13 Mar 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2341

Abstract

The cultivation of rice is widespread worldwide, but its growth and productivity are hampered by heavy metals stress. However, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a nitric oxide donor, has been found to be effective for imparting heavy metals stress tolerance to plants. Therefore, the current [...] Read more.

The cultivation of rice is widespread worldwide, but its growth and productivity are hampered by heavy metals stress. However, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a nitric oxide donor, has been found to be effective for imparting heavy metals stress tolerance to plants. Therefore, the current study evaluated the role of exogenously applied SNP in improving plant growth and development under Hg, Cr, Cu, and Zn stress. For this purpose, heavy metals stress was induced via the application of 1 mM mercury (Hg), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn). To reverse the toxic effects of heavy metals stress, 0.1 mM SNP was administrated via the root zone. The results revealed that the said heavy metals significantly reduced the chlorophyll contents (SPAD), chlorophyll a and b, and protein contents. However, SNP treatment significantly reduced the toxic effects of the said heavy metals on chlorophyll (SPAD), chlorophyll a and b, and protein contents. In addition, the results also revealed that heavy metals significantly increased the production of superoxide anion (SOA), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), malondialdehyde (MDA), and electrolyte leakage (EL). However, SNP administration significantly reduced the production of SOA, H₂O₂, MDA, and EL in response to the said heavy metals. Furthermore, to cope with the said heavy metals stress, SNP administration significantly enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and polyphenol peroxidase (PPO). Furthermore, in response to the said heavy metals, SNP application also upregulated the transcript accumulation of OsPCS1, OsPCS2, OsMTP1, OsMTP5, OsMT-I-1a, and OsMT-I-1b. Therefore, SNP can be used as a regulator to improve the heavy metals tolerance of rice in heavy-metals-affected areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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14 pages, 1979 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Silver Inhibits Lemna minor Growth at High Initial Frond Densities

by Indigo T. Tran, Jordan A. Heiman, Victoria R. Lydy and La Toya Kissoon

Plants 2023, 12(5), 1104; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12051104 - 01 Mar 2023

Viewed by 1383

Abstract

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are the most popular engineered nanomaterials in consumer products due to their antimicrobial properties. They enter aquatic ecosystems via insufficient purified wastewaters from manufacturers or consumers. AgNPs inhibit growth of aquatic plants, including duckweeds. Growth media nutrient concentration and initial [...] Read more.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are the most popular engineered nanomaterials in consumer products due to their antimicrobial properties. They enter aquatic ecosystems via insufficient purified wastewaters from manufacturers or consumers. AgNPs inhibit growth of aquatic plants, including duckweeds. Growth media nutrient concentration and initial duckweed frond density can affect growth. However, it is not well understood how frond density affects nanoparticle toxicity. We investigated the toxicity of 500 µg/L AgNPs and AgNO₃ on Lemna minor at different initial frond densities (20, 40, and 80 fronds per 28.5 cm²) over 14 days. Plants were more sensitive to silver at high initial frond densities. Growth rates based on frond number and area were lower for plants at 40 and 80 initial frond density in both silver treatments. AgNPs had no effect on frond number, biomass, and frond area at 20 initial frond density. However, AgNO₃ plants had lower biomass than control and AgNP plants at 20 initial frond density. Competition and crowding at high frond densities resulted in reduced growth when silver was present, therefore plant density and crowding effects should be considered in toxicity studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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31 pages, 1356 KiB  

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Agricultural Strategies to Reduce Cadmium Accumulation in Crops for Food Safety

by Samavia Mubeen, Wenjuan Ni, Chuntao He and Zhongyi Yang

Agriculture 2023, 13(2), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13020471 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5222

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) contamination in edible agricultural products, especially in crops, has raised worldwide concerns regarding food safety consumption. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the applicable methods and perspectives for reducing Cd contamination of agricultural products. Agricultural approaches of soil amendments, irrigation [...] Read more.

Cadmium (Cd) contamination in edible agricultural products, especially in crops, has raised worldwide concerns regarding food safety consumption. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the applicable methods and perspectives for reducing Cd contamination of agricultural products. Agricultural approaches of soil amendments, irrigation management, microbial agent, and cropping patterns were systematically concluded to illustrate the developments and achievements in crop contamination management. The use of traditional soil amendments as well as novel nano-materials has contributed to producing safe crops in agricultural soil contaminated with Cd. This review provides an inspiring and promising tool for maintaining food safety by reducing Cd accumulation in edible agricultural products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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15 pages, 2086 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Silicon Actuates Poplar Calli Tolerance after Longer Exposure to Antimony

by Eva Labancová, Zuzana Vivodová, Kristína Šípošová and Karin Kollárová

Plants 2023, 12(3), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12030689 - 03 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1222

Abstract

The presence of antimony (Sb) in high concentrations in the environment is recognized as an emerging problem worldwide. The toxicity of Sb in plant tissues is known; however, new methods of plant tolerance improvement must be addressed. Here, poplar callus (Populus alba [...] Read more.

The presence of antimony (Sb) in high concentrations in the environment is recognized as an emerging problem worldwide. The toxicity of Sb in plant tissues is known; however, new methods of plant tolerance improvement must be addressed. Here, poplar callus (Populus alba L. var. pyramidallis) exposed to Sb(III) in 0.2 mM concentration and/or to silicon (Si) in 5 mM concentration was cultivated in vitro to determine the impact of Sb/Si interaction in the tissue. The Sb and Si uptake, growth, the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), guaiacol-peroxidase (G-POX), nutrient concentrations, and the concentrations of photosynthetic pigments were investigated. To elucidate the action of Si during the Sb-induced stress, the impact of short and long cultivations was determined. Silicon decreased the accumulation of Sb in the calli, regardless of the length of the cultivation (by approx. 34%). Antimony lowered the callus biomass (by approx. 37%) and decreased the concentrations of photosynthetic pigments (up to 78.5%) and nutrients in the tissue (up to 21.7%). Silicon supported the plant tolerance to Sb via the modification of antioxidant enzyme activity, which resulted in higher biomass production (increased by approx. 35%) and a higher uptake of nutrients from the media (increased by approx. 10%). Silicon aided the development of Sb-tolerance over the longer cultivation period. These results are key in understanding the action of Si-developed tolerance against metalloids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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12 pages, 1009 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Phytotoxic Action of Silver Nanoparticles on Lemna minor: Multi-Parameter Analysis of Different Physiological Processes

by Katarina Glavaš Ljubimir, Ana-Marija Domijan and Sandra Radić Brkanac

Plants 2023, 12(2), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12020343 - 11 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1504

Abstract

Considering the widespread use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their consequent build-up in waterways, there is a concern about the hazardous effect of AgNPs for aquatic ecosystems. The aim of this study was to clarify the mechanism of the action of AgNPs on [...] Read more.

Considering the widespread use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their consequent build-up in waterways, there is a concern about the hazardous effect of AgNPs for aquatic ecosystems. The aim of this study was to clarify the mechanism of the action of AgNPs on duckweed (Lemna minor L.) by evaluating multiple parameters in different physiological processes. Duckweed was treated with AgNPs in a concentration range of 0.5 to 5 mg/L over a 7-day period. The analysis revealed that the AgNP-treated duckweed accumulated Ag in accordance with increasing AgNP concentrations. Furthermore, higher concentrations (2 and 5 mg/L) of AgNPs negatively affected N, P and especially K and Mg levels in the plant tissue. Accordingly, the plant growth and photosynthetic parameters were more inhibited in response to higher concentrations of AgNPs. Nanosilver significantly increased the generation of ROS at higher concentrations, although lipid peroxidation was significant even at the lowest concentration of AgNPs. However, defense mechanisms were able to counteract AgNP-induced oxidative stress and balance the intracellular redox status, as evidenced by increased activities of the main detoxification enzymes. With this experimental setting, AgNPs exhibited a relatively weak phytotoxicity at 0.5 and 1 mg/L; nevertheless, silver in a nano form poses a hazard for plants, considering its continuous release into aquatic environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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15 pages, 4151 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Heterogeneity of Chlorophyll Content and Fluorescence Response within Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Canopies under Different Cadmium Stress

by Xiaoyun Huang, Hongxing Chen, Hui Chen, Chengwu Fan, Yueying Tai, Xiaoran Chen, Wang Zhang, Tengbing He and Zhenran Gao

Agronomy 2023, 13(1), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13010121 - 30 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1438

Abstract

The spatiotemporal heterogeneity of rice canopy leaves at different leaf positions is very important for non-destructive monitoring under Cadmium (Cd) stress, and is one of the key problems that need to be solved urgently in modern agriculture. This study aims to explore the [...] Read more.

The spatiotemporal heterogeneity of rice canopy leaves at different leaf positions is very important for non-destructive monitoring under Cadmium (Cd) stress, and is one of the key problems that need to be solved urgently in modern agriculture. This study aims to explore the temporal and spatial heterogeneity of chlorophyll content and fluorescence in rice canopy leaves under different Cd stress concentrations. The responses of the relative chlorophyll content (SPAD) and Chlorophyll fluorescence (ChlF) parameters to Cd stress in the tillering, heading, and filling stages were analyzed through pot experiments with three Cd concentrations: 0.20 mg·kg⁻¹ (CK), 0.60 mg·kg⁻¹ (Cd1), and 1.60 mg·kg⁻¹ (Cd2). Results showed that the canopy leaf SPAD value increased with increasing Cd concentration. Compared with CK, the leaf SPAD value in the Cd1 and Cd2 treatments were 1.91–3.45% and 5.52–12.01% lower, respectively. The SPAD value of the lower leaves was higher in the tillering stage, while the SPAD value of the upper leaves was higher in the heading and filling stages. The non-photochemical quenching coefficient (NPQ) of the third leaf (D3), the initial fluorescence yield (Fo) of the second leaf (D2), and the maximum photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) of photosystem II (PSII) in the tillering stage; the NPQ, Fo, and Fv/Fm of the D3 in the heading stage; and the NPQ, Fo, Fv/Fm, and Fv/Fm of the D2 in the filling stage were more sensitive to Cd stress than the other leaves and ChlF parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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15 pages, 2093 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Dendroremediation Potential of Six Quercus Species to Polluted Soil in Historic Copper Mining Sites

by Yini Cao, Liangqian Yu, Ning Dang, Lixiang Sun, Pingxuan Zhang, Jiwu Cao and Guangcai Chen

Forests 2023, 14(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14010062 - 29 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1293

Abstract

Green remediation of severely contaminated soils around mining sites can be achieved using suitable woody plants such as Quercus species, but their phytoremediation potential has not been well evaluated yet. Six Quercus species, which were popular in ecological restoration and landscape application in [...] Read more.

Green remediation of severely contaminated soils around mining sites can be achieved using suitable woody plants such as Quercus species, but their phytoremediation potential has not been well evaluated yet. Six Quercus species, which were popular in ecological restoration and landscape application in east China, were selected and evaluated for their phytoremediation potential of metal polluted soil using a pot experiment that lasted for 150 d. The results suggested that Quercus species exhibited high tolerance to multi-metal contamination of Cu (9839 mg$·$kg⁻¹), Cd (8.5 mg$·$kg⁻¹), and Zn (562 mg$·$kg⁻¹) with a tolerance index (TI) ranging from 0.52 to 1.21. Three Quercus (Q. pagoda, Q. acutissima, and Q. nuttallii) showed relatively higher tolerance with TIs of 1.08, 1.09, and 1.21, respectively. Above-ground tissues accounted for most of the total biomass in T1 (mixture of clean and polluted soil, 50%) and T2 (100% polluted soil) treatments for most species. The Cu contents in plant tissues were in the order of root > leaf > stem, whereas Zn exhibited the order of leaf > stem > root, and Cd showed divergent mobility within the Quercus species. All the Quercus species exhibited higher capacity for Zn phytoextraction with translocation factor (TF) over 1 and Cu/Cd phytostabilization with TFs lower than 1. The analytic hierarchy process-entropy weight model indicated that Q. virginiana and Q. acutissima were two excellent species with evident phytoremediation capacity of Cu, Cd, and Zn co-contaminated soil. Taken together, Quercus species showed great potential for phytoremediation of soils severely polluted by Cu, Cd, and Zn around historic mining sites. Application of Quercus species is a green remediation option with low-maintenance cost and prospective economic benefit for phytomanagement of historic mining sites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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13 pages, 1381 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Exogenous Melatonin Attenuates Cd Toxicity in Tea (Camellia sinensis)

by Xiaoqin Tan, Jiacheng Huang, Lijin Lin and Qian Tang

Agronomy 2022, 12(10), 2485; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12102485 - 12 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1487

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) is highly toxic and not easily degradable. It damages plant growth and results in large-scale economic losses. The present study explored the feasibility of using melatonin to alleviate Cd toxicity, and to reduce Cd accumulation in tea seedlings cultivated in Cd-contaminated [...] Read more.

Cadmium (Cd) is highly toxic and not easily degradable. It damages plant growth and results in large-scale economic losses. The present study explored the feasibility of using melatonin to alleviate Cd toxicity, and to reduce Cd accumulation in tea seedlings cultivated in Cd-contaminated soil. Exogenous melatonin, especially at 150 μM, promoted tea seedling growth under Cd stress, and increased the photosynthetic pigment by 16% and soluble protein content by 5%. Furthermore, melatonin effectively increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase (POD) by 21 and 31%, respectively, contributed to a decrease of the malondialdehyde (MDA) by 2% and the Cd content in leaves by 52%. Furthermore, soil enzyme activities were enhanced, including acid phosphatase (ACP), urease (UE), soil sucrase (SC), and soil catalase (CAT), by 11, 70, 1, and 18%, respectively, along with a pH reduction and available Cd content increase, after melatonin application. Taken together, our results provide evidence that melatonin lessens the adverse Cd effects on tea seedlings’ physiology, mainly through enhancing the antioxidant capacity of the plants and soils to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon Cd exposure. Therefore, melatonin may be used as a modulator to alleviate Cd-induced toxicity in tea seedlings, thereby resulting in healthier tea plant growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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15 pages, 2141 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Metal(loids) Concentrations in Soils of Selected Rice Paddy Fields in Malawi

by Angstone Thembachako Mlangeni, Andrea Raab, Patsani Kumambala, Maurice Monjerezi, Limbikani Matumba and Joerg Feldmann

Agronomy 2022, 12(10), 2349; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12102349 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1649

Abstract

The aim of this study was to obtain baseline data for heavy metal(loids) concentrations of rice paddy fields to evaluate the impacts of soil metal(loids) concentrations on quality of rice, and to identify sources of metal(loids) pollution of paddy fields in Malawi. In [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to obtain baseline data for heavy metal(loids) concentrations of rice paddy fields to evaluate the impacts of soil metal(loids) concentrations on quality of rice, and to identify sources of metal(loids) pollution of paddy fields in Malawi. In total, 66 soil samples were collected from 22 different smallholder rice farmers’ paddy fields (sites) in Malawi. Concentrations of metal(loids) (arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), uranium (U), and gallium (Ga)) were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after acid block digestion with a mixture of concentrated nitric acid (70% HNO3) and hydrogen peroxide (30% H₂O₂). Measured soil metal(loids) concentrations were compared with Soil UK CLEA soil metal(loids) guidelines, maximum allowable limits (MAL) recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Chinese Environmental Quality Standards (CEQS) for soil metal(loids) concentrations in agricultural soils, and the normally reported soil metal(loids) concentrations in agricultural fields worldwide. Results indicated that mean soil As (2.2 mg As kg⁻¹), Cd (0.044 mg Cd kg⁻¹), Pb (11 mg Pb kg⁻¹), Co (14 ± 6 mg Co kg⁻¹), Mn (601 mg Mn kg⁻¹), U (2.02 mg U kg⁻¹), and Ga (24 mg Ga kg⁻¹) concentrations were at least three times lower than the respective guidelines and MAL recommended by WHO, UK CLEA, and CEQS (20 mg As kg⁻¹, 0.3 mg Cd kg⁻¹, 32 mg Pb kg⁻¹, 50 mg Co kg⁻¹, and 2000 mg Mn kg⁻¹). The values obtained in this study were also within the normally reported metal(loid) concentrations for unpolluted agricultural soils worldwide. However, the mean Cr concentration (78.0 mg Cr kg⁻¹) obtained in this study was higher than that reported for agricultural soils in China (27 ± 5 mg Cr kg⁻¹; range: 22–39 mg Cr kg⁻¹) but was within the normally reported Cr concentrations (1–100 mg Cr kg⁻¹) for unpolluted soils. These findings suggest that metal(loids) concentrations of Malawian rice paddies pose no threat to production to elevated metal(loids) accumulation in rice, and that rice paddies should be safeguarded from contamination. However, further research is required to investigate the impacts of factors such as source of irrigation of water, water management regimes, soil cation exchange capacity, organic manure/composts amendments, and the application of inorganic fertilizers on uptake, transfer, and translocation of soil metal(loids) to various parts of rice plants, even when the soil metal(loids) concentrations are low. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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13 pages, 3370 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Dittrichia viscosa Aquaporin Nip1.1 Gene as Marker for Arsenic-Tolerant Plant Selection

by Angelo De Paolis, Monica De Caroli, Makarena Rojas, Lorenzo Maria Curci, Gabriella Piro and Gian-Pietro Di Sansebastiano

Plants 2022, 11(15), 1968; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11151968 - 28 Jul 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1440

Abstract

Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter is gaining attention for its high genetic plasticity and ability to adapt to adverse environmental conditions, including heavy metal and metalloid pollution. Uptake and translocation of cadmium, copper, iron, nickel, lead, and zinc to the shoots have been characterized, [...] Read more.

Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter is gaining attention for its high genetic plasticity and ability to adapt to adverse environmental conditions, including heavy metal and metalloid pollution. Uptake and translocation of cadmium, copper, iron, nickel, lead, and zinc to the shoots have been characterized, but its performance with arsenic is less known and sometimes contradictory. Tolerance to As is not related to a reduced uptake, but the null mutation of the aquaporin Nip1.1 gene in Arabidopsis makes the plant completely resistant to the metalloid. This aquaporin, localized in the endoplasmic reticulum, is responsible for arsenite and antimony (Sb) membrane permeation, but the uptake of arsenite occurs also in the null mutant, suggesting a more sophisticated action mechanism than direct uptake. In this study, the DvNip1 gene homologue is cloned and its expression profile in roots and shoots is characterized in different arsenic stress conditions. The use of clonal lines allowed to evidence that DvNip1.1 expression level is influenced by arsenic stress. The proportion of gene expression in roots and shoots can be used to generate an index that appears to be a promising putative selection marker to predict arsenic-resistant lines of Dittrichia viscosa plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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16 pages, 3351 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Plant Growth and Nutrient Composition of Shrub and Arbor Willows Grown in Cu-Contaminated Flooded Soil

by Yini Cao, Jiang Xiao, Jie Chen, Xiaogang Li, Jiuxi Shi and Guangcai Chen

Forests 2022, 13(7), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/f13070989 - 23 Jun 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1458

Abstract

Flooding can adversely worsen metal-contaminated soil and influence phytoremediation efficiency; thus, it is crucial to explore the eco-physiological responses of plants to the combined stress of metals and flooding. Here, the plant growth, photosynthesis, and nutrient composition in the arbor willow (Salix [...] Read more.

Flooding can adversely worsen metal-contaminated soil and influence phytoremediation efficiency; thus, it is crucial to explore the eco-physiological responses of plants to the combined stress of metals and flooding. Here, the plant growth, photosynthesis, and nutrient composition in the arbor willow (Salix jiangsuensis ‘J172’) and shrub willow (Salix integra ‘Yizhibi’) were studied using a pot experiment with Cu-contaminated soil (239.5 mg$·$kg⁻¹) under flooded versus non-flooded conditions. S. integra showed a larger bioconcentration factor (BCF) than S. jiangsuensis in both treatments. Flooding markedly decreased the BCFs while obviously increasing the translocation factor in the two willows (p$<$ 0.05). Flooding enhanced the leaf C:P and N:P ratios while significantly decreased root C:P and N:P ratios, compared to the non-flooded condition. The shrub willow exhibited better tolerance to flooding, with little alteration in biomass and photosynthetic rate, and showed greater potential Cu accumulation capacity, even though its total biomass was significantly lower than that of the arbor willow. Our study also helps further understanding of nutrient balance and stoichiometry of willows in response to flooding and Cu contamination, promoting the management of Cu-contaminated flooded soils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants)

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