Lead and Nutrients Uptake by Aeluropus littoralis under Different Levels of Lead in Soil

Phytoremediation has been proposed as an ecological remediation technology for soils polluted with heavy metals. In this technology introduction of new plants having heavy metals uptake and translocation ability to shoot is considered as a promising strategy. In a pot culture experiment، effects of 0، 500، 1000، 2000، 4000 and 8000 mg Pb kg-1 soil were investigated on growth and uptake of lead and some nutrients in Aeluropus littoralis plant. The results showed Pb application reduced plant growth and dry matter production. Different concentrations of Pb had significant effects on macro and micro nutrients uptake by A. littoralis. The maximum Pb accumulation in root (155. 7 mg kg-1) was for the treatment of 8000 mg Pb kg-1 soil. The highest translocation of Pb (531 mg/kg dry matter) into shoot was observed at the treatment of 4000 mg Pb kg-1 soil. Results indicated that A. littoralis had an appropriate performance in Pb translocation to shoot. This characteristic is an important factor of this plant that can play key role in phytoextraction and cleaning up of Pb contaminated soil.