THE POTENTIAL OF Catharanthus Roseus AS A PHYTOREMEDIATION AGENT FOR HEAVY METAL REMOVAL IN CONTAMINATED SOIL

Abstract

Heavy metals from human activities, such as industrial emissions and mining waste, contribute to environmental, nutritional, and health issues. Catharanthus roseus, a phytoremediation plant, was tested to determine the levels of heavy metals in soil and plants. The experiment involved preparing various amounts of heavy metals by combining four elements: Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), and Zinc (Zn). Four treatment groups were tested, each with varying levels of heavy metal contamination. The initial group (T0) served as the positive control, while the next four groups (T1-T4) were subjected to escalating levels of heavy metals. T1 was given a 200ml solution containing 0.9 (Cd) + 4.0 (Cu) + 0.18 (Pb) + 6.9 (Zn). T2 was given a 200ml solution containing 11.90 (Cd) +19.80 (Cu) +36.00 (Pb) + 54.3 (Zn). T3 was given a 200ml solution containing 23.80 (Cd) + 39.60 (Cu) + 72.00 (Pb) + 108.6 (Zn). T4 was given a 200ml solution containing of 23.80 (Cd) + 39.60 (Cu) + 72.00 (Pb) + 108.6 (Zn). The dataset included measurements of soil pH, heavy metal concentrations, plant height, and shoot and root length. The results showed that the T3 solution, consisting of 23.80 (Cd) + 39.60 (Cu) + 72.00 (Pb) + 108.6 (Zn), had the most favourable plant growth performance based on soil and plant concentrations. This suggests that immediate action is needed to ensure safe food availability.