A Physiological behavior and tolerance of Lactuca sativa to lead nitrate and silver nitrate heavy metals

Abstract This study goal to evaluate the effects of different concentrations lead (Pb) and silver (Ag) on germination, initial growth anatomical alterations Lactuca sativa L. Plants use various mechanisms reduce impacts caused by anthropic action, such as xenobiotic elements soils water contaminated heavy metals. These metals were supplied nitrate following treatments established: control for both metals, maximum dose arable soils, allowed National Council Environment (Ag = 25 mg. Kg-1, Pb 180 Kg-1), double 50 360 Kg-1) triple 75 540 Kg -1) this dosage. Vigor germination tests seeds possible changes in leaves roots lettuce plants performed. The species showed a high capacity germinate under Ag stress, was never completely inhibited; however, decreased with increasing concentrations, but not stress. doses reduced seed vigor increased chlorophyll content. An increase biomass also observed from submitted Pb. phytotoxic more pronounced at 15 days after sowing. Anatomically, influenced metal had reduction up 79.9% root epidermis thickness highest concentration, although some structures did suffer significant changes. results suggest that presents tolerance showing overcome stress these In research possibly used mechanism exclusion retaining preserving photosynthetic apparatus aerial part plants. general, chemical element toxic than Ag, experimental conditions.