Uptake and some physiological effects of mercury on water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Mart) Solms.

Abstract

The uptake and growth effects of mercury (Hg) on Eichhornia crassipes under field conditions and with lakewater as cultural medium were investigated. Absorption of the heavy metal increase with higher levels of Hg in the culture solution. Roots of the heavy metal than the leaves. The addition of 1 and 2 ppm of Hg into the culture medium was not toxic but significantly reduce fresh matter production, root elongation, ramet formation and total chlorophyll content of mature leaf blades during a four-week culture period. The results strongly suggest a beneficial role of the plant, long considered as a noxious weed, as a bioaccumulator of Hg in polluted lakes.