Effect of Air Pollution on Leaf Traits of Three Tree Species Growing in the Industrial Zone of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Effect of air pollution in the industrial area of Jeddah city, Saudi Arabia on three tree species Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora), Henna (Lawsonia inermis), and Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis) has been studied with special reference to characteristics of leaves. These plant species were chosen because they are common and in the industrial and control areas. leaf area, number of stomata, stomata length and width and stomata pore width and length of these plant species were investigated. The results of this study with all trees species showed significant decrease in plant leaf area and stomata number in the industrial zone comparing with the control area. The results of those tree species indicated marked alteration in epidermal traits, with increased stomata length and width and stomata pore width and length collected from industrial site than those from control site. These changes in the leaf area and epidermal traits could be as indicator of environmental stress and can be recommended in the industrial areas for the early detection of air pollution.