Iron plaque formation on roots and phosphate mediated alleviation of toxic effects in Lens culinaris Medik. induced by arsenic
Souvik Mitra, Dipa Paul
Abstract
Arsenic contamination is a worldwide environmental problem which significantly affects crop productivity in South-East Asia. Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) productivity is also affected due to use of arsenic contaminated irrigation water in different regions of West Bengal, India. Present study is an attempt to decipher the possible way for alleviation of arsenic toxicity effects on lentils. Responses of lentil (cv. WBL-77) to different concentrations of arsenate (V) was investigated in presence or absence of phosphate. Arsenate treatment resulted significant reduction in growth and biomass along with enhanced occurrence of compatible solutes, lipid peroxidation and increased activity of antioxidant system. Formation of iron plaque on root surface was another important observation which was found to be involved in sequestration of arsenic on root surface and inhibition of arsenic translocation inside plants. Application of phosphate resulted considerable alterations suggesting its ameliorating effect against arsenic toxicity. From outcome of the study, supplementation of phosphate nutrition can be suggested for effective cultivation of lentils in arsenic contaminated areas.