Evaluation of phytoremediation potential of bambusa balcooa roxburgh in heavy metal contaminated soil

Abstract

Increasing concentration of heavy metal pollution in the agricultural soil by anthropogenic activities, industrialization and modernization poses a great concern to human health. Because of these factors, there is a discernible escalation in the levels of heavy metal concentration, leading to significant environmental concerns. In order to address the ongoing issues, there is an urgent requirement to remediate the polluted soil. Various approaches have been investigated for remediating polluted soil, among which phytoremediation has proven to be a viable and feasible method for soil remediation. Due to the distinctive characteristics of bamboo, including its high biomass, rapid growth, robust root and rhizome system, and adaptability to adverse conditions, this research was initiated to evaluate the phytoremediation potential of B. balcooa in remediating soil contaminated with Pb, Cd and Ni. B. balcooa exhibited the following trends of heavy metals accumulation as root gt stem gt leaf. These metals induce oxidative stress in plants, giving rise to detrimental impacts on various morphological, physiological, and biochemical parameters of the bamboo. Present findings demonstrated a 100% survival rate for the plant, underscoring the potential of B. balcooa as a robust phytoremediation agent. Due to its socioeconomic and ecological importance, bamboo emerges as an ideal candidate for the remediation of heavy metals contaminated soil. The current investigation will provide practical insights into the phytoremediation and tolerance capabilities of B. balcooa. This knowledge will play a crucial role in executing practical remediation efforts for polluted soil at the site. newline