Lead Uptake and Growth Responses in Pistia Stratiotes Linn. (Quiapo)
R. Espinosa (pp. 16-23)
Abstract
Pistia stratiotes was cultures in hyroponics solutions amended with three differential lead (Pb) level – 2ppm, 4ppm, and 8 ppm [Pb in the form of Pb (No3)2]. AAS analysis revealed that Pb accumulation in the plant tissue (BCF) increased with increasing Pb levels in the culture solutions. Pb accumulation had caused the development of chlorotic leaves and decreases in the fresh biomass of the plants. However, there was no interference of the Pb accumulation on the growth responses of Pistia in terms of moisture, chlorophyll, and protein contents. These findings imply that P. stratiotes might be useful in heavy metal decontamination process in industrial and domestic wastewaters. These responses also indicate the potential of Pistia as a lead scavenger and bioremediation tool in the aquatic environment.