The heavy metal of cuprum (Cu) and lead(Pb) content in Avicennia marina and Rhizophora mucranata

Abstract

Various types of mangrove plants found in coastal areas have a specific strategy to deal with pollution conditions from heavy metals. One of the several strategies used by mangroves is by accumulating various kinds of heavy metals in various parts of the tree. Most species of mangroves such as Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata, Sonneratia caseolaris, Bruguiera gymnorhyza and others apply this strategy. Avicennia marina and Rhizophora mucronata are pioneer mangrove species that are able to accumulate heavy metals in the roots, stems and leaves. These species are also act as indicator of the sustainability of mangrove ecosystems. The presence of heavy metals will reduce water quality subsequently will decline the overall condition of the ecosystem. How big is the ability of Avicenia marina and Rhizopohora mucronata mangroves to absorb copper (Cu) and Lead (Pb) metals and how the conditions of the aquatic environment surrounding mangroves during heavy metal stress are need to be studied. Analysis of Cu and Pb heavy metals contents were carried out at the Chemistry Laboratory of the USU Medan Pharmacy Faculty. The mangrove species used for the analysis of Cu and Pb heavy metals were A.marina and R. mucronata that grew in Muara Sungai coastal areas from April to August 2018. The results showed heavy metal content of Cu was greater than Pb in wire roots, stems and leaves of A. marina trees. Analysis of roots, leaves and bark of R. mucronata also found greater content of Cu heavy metals than Pb.