The toxic effects of nickel and cadmium on germination, seedling growth and biochemical contents of Rauwolfia serpentina Benth. ex Kruz

Abstract

Effects of different concentrations of nickel sulphate and cadmium nitrate on germination, root and shoot growth, dry weight and changes in contents of total sugar, protein and pigments of this plant was studied. The study shows that the lower concentration of nickel has no effect or beneficial effect but application of higher level of nickel has an adverse effect. Cadmium reduced the percentage of germination, root and shoot length and dry weight of root and shoot. The content of pigments, total sugar and protein were also affected by cadmium nitrate and their contents were decreased.

Keywords

• germination and growth
• heavy metals
• medicinal plant
• nickel and cadmium toxicity
• rauwolfia serpentina benth. ex kruz