Tolerance of Three Ornamental Plant Species to Chromium contamination in Soil and their Potential for Phytoextraction and Phytostabilization of the Toxic Metal

Chromium is a reactive and toxic heavy metal that enters the soil through various anthropogenic activities moves food chain affecting adversely higher trophic levels including humans. While engineering techniques to remediate contaminated sites are costly energy intensive, phytoremediation with suitable plant species low cost, easy eco-friendly technique, which uses solar in process. Using non-edible plants makes process of remediation safe sustainable. The present study was therefore, carried out growth, Cr tolerance potential three ornamental Sansevieria trifasciata, Canna indica (L) Nephrolepis exaltata for removal chromium from soil. Pot culture experiments were conducted greenhouse using soils artificially spiked (Cr250, Cr500, Cr750 mg/kg soil). Tolerance different concentrations varied as reflected by trends magnitude change aboveground belowground biomass. Leaf chlorophyll carotenoid quite tolerant at Cr250 all species, up Cr500 Sansevieria. antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) showed elevated activity parts Cr250, while catalase (CAT) declined response metal. All significant accumulation Cr, more so parts. Total phytoextraction highest N. exaltata, followed C. S. trifasciata. In bioconcentration factor (BCF) >1, indicating suitability these soils.