Abstract

Anatomical, histochemical and biochemical approaches were used to study mercury uptake and phytotoxicity as well as anti-oxidative responses in two species of ferns [Chinese brake fern (Pteris vittata) and Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)], grown in a hydroponic system. The roots of both cultivars accumulated large amounts of mercury, but exhibited limited mercury translocation to shoots. Mercury exposure led to more pronounced phytotoxicity accompanied by stronger oxidative stress in the shoots of P. vittata than in N. exaltata. N. exaltata established a more effective anti-oxidative system against mercury-induced oxidative stress than did P. vittata. The activity of anti-oxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione reductase) increased. The reduced ascorbate (ASA) and oxidized ascorbate (DHA) are regulated. Mercury exposure led to an increase in the concentration of glutathione (GSH) in both fern species. The present study suggests that N. exaltata is more tolerant to mercury exposure than P. vittata, which has been also reported to be more tolerant to arsenic exposure. N. exaltata may thus have potential for phytostabilization of soils or phytofiltration of waste water contaminated with mercury.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.