Studies on Cadmium, Lead, Chromium and Nickel-scavenging Capacity by In-Vivo Grown Musa paradisiaca L. using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Abstract

Phytoextraction, the use of hyperaccumulator plant species to scavenge toxic heavy metals from contaminated soils are considered as an emerging technique for cost effective and environmental friendly detoxification. The present study was conducted to evaluate the scavenging efficiency of in-vivo gown Musa paradisiacal L. for the uptake of Cd, Pb, Cr and Ni. Excessive heavy metal accumulation can be toxic to most plants leading to reduction in seed germination, root elongation and biomass production; inhibition of chlorophyll biosynthesis as well as disturbance in cellular metabolism and chromosome distortion. For studying the heavy metals load of sewage sludge and their effect on crop quality in relation to non applied sites, solid sludge and fruit plant Musa paradisiacal L. was collected from seven Sewage Treatment Plants viz. Howrah, Garulia, Bhatpara, Nabadwip, Srirampur, Kona, Chandannager and from the Periurban areas viz. Nadia/Chakdaha/Ektapur(N/C/E), Nadia/Chakdaha/Pumlia, Nadia/Chakdaha/Sikarpur(N/C/S), Nadia/Chakdaha/Tatla (N/C/T). The results suggest that fruit plant like Musa paradisiacal L. has more scavenging capacity for Pb and Cd and if this plant is cultivated in sites abundant with above heavy metals, this would scavenge the heavy metal toxicity from the soil.