Growth Response of Maize (Zea mays) to Metal Toxicity
Date
2018
Authors
Oladele, E.O.
Yahaya, T
Adewumi, O.O.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Journal of Natural Science, Engineering and Technology, FUNAAB
Abstract
This study evaluated the phytotoxic effects of lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) as Pb(NO3)
2
and Zn(NO3)
2 on
maize (Zea mays L) considering the plants’ growth indices, biomass as well as soil parameters and
soil microorganisms after treatment. The results showed that plant growth significantly reduced with
increasing concentrations (100,150 and 200 mgkg-1
) of Pb and Zn contamination. The results indicated
significant inhibitory effect on the growth parameters (stem height, root length, leaf area, fresh and dry
weight) measured, compared to control experiment. This study therefore revealed that the heavy met als have harmful effects on maize’s growth. Consequently, the consumption of such contaminated
cereal by man and animals can lead to their death after the metals have biomagnified in their systems.
Lead and Zn application in general, affected the vegetative growth; both fresh and dry weights were
reduced with increasing concentrations of the metals. These results show that these metals are toxic
to human and animal health. As a result, farmers should be encouraged to use water from good
source for irrigation and also cultivate on metal-free soils if possible to save lives.
Description
Scholarly article
Keywords
Biomass , Growth Indices , Heavy metal , Toxicity , Zea mays , Research Subject Categories::SOCIAL SCIENCES::Social sciences::Education
Citation
Oladele E.O, Yahaya, T and Adewumi, O.O. (2018): “Growth Response of Maize (Zea mays) to Metal Toxicity’’. Journal of Natural Science Engineering and Technology. FUNAAB. 17(1&2): 75-82