Investigations into the effect of automobile exhausts on the phenology, periodicity and productivity of some roadside trees

Abstract

In response to a polluted atmosphere, the phenology of Ficus benyalensis and Eucalyptus sp. was highly affected. The yield of seeds and fruits of Gunincun officinale and Azadirachta indica was lessened at the polluted sites. The automobile emissions significantly reduced the productivity in G. officinale, F. bengalensis and Eucalyptus sp., whereas, A. indica was comparatively resistant to vehicle exhaust pollution. Leaf area and dry weight were significantly reduced in most of the plants.

Keywords

• automobile exhaust
• periodicity
• phenology
• productivity
• seasonal effects
• trees