VASUNDHARA ARORA, NAVNEET, BIKRAM JIT SINGH, RIPPIN SEHGAL, R. K. BEHL, ISHWAR SINGH, MAHITI GUPTA AND RAJ SINGH*
Department of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala-133 207 (Haryana), India
*(e-mail: dr.rajsingh09@gmail.com; Mobile: 98979 90346)
(Received: March 15, 2024; Accepted: July 15, 2024)
ABSTRACT
The present investigation was carried to assess heavy metals (chromium and lead) pollutants effects on the seed germination in plants. The plants selected for the study were cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and brinjal (Solanum melongena). The heavy metals were applied in four concentrations viz., 20, 40, 100 and 200 ppm solutions. Maximum seed germination frequency (60%) was observed with 40 ppm concentration of lead (Pb) and 20 ppm concentration of chromium (Cr) with stimulatory effect on seed germination in brinjal seeds. One hundred and 200 ppm concentrations were stimulatory in the beginning but later on became inhibitory. Around 100% germination of cowpea seeds was observed in control. The maximum seed germination frequency was observed with Pb (40 ppm) and Cr (40 ppm). All concentrations of Pb and Cr, in general, had inhibitory effects on cowpea seed germination except 20 ppm concentration of Cr after 48 and 72 h and 40 ppm concentration of Cr at 48 h. The study outlined how heavy metal contamination affected seed germination in brinjal and cowpea plants, emphasizing species-specific responses and temporal dynamics. Through experimentation and analysis, significant influences of heavy metal concentration on seed germination outcomes were observed. The analysis underscored the importance of considering plant diversity and conducting longitudinal assessments to accurately evaluate environmental impacts. By integrating findings with existing literature, insights are gained into plant responses to environmental stressors, informing strategies for sustainable land management and conservation practices. This study provides a succinct overview of the research, contributing to the broader understanding of heavy metal pollution’s ecological consequences.
Key words: Heavy metals, chromium, lead, germination, brinjal, cowpea, regression