Seasonal variation of heavy metal concentration in Alternanthera Sessilis

Sheetal Belkhode; Deepa Panhekar; Ashok Kalambe

Volume : VI, Issue : I, January - 2016

Seasonal variation of heavy metal concentration in Alternanthera Sessilis

Sheetal Belkhode, Deepa Panhekar, Ashok Kalambe

Abstract :

The aim of the study was to assess the seasonal accumulation of heavy metals by Alternanthera sessilis. The plant and water samples used in this study were obtained from Ambazari Lake at different seasons. Heavy metals for which these samples were analyzed were Chromium (Cr), Arsenic (As), Nickel (Ni), Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb). The metals accumulated were investigated using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometer (ICPAES). Results showed that the concentration of heavy metals in water during rainy season were higher. Plant samples were analyzed separately for their root and shoot. Metal concentration was higher in root than shoot. The metal concentration in the plant parts, in general follows the order Ni > Cr > Pb > As > Cd. Bioconcentration, bioaccumulation and translocation factors were calculated seasonally. These values suggest that Alternanthera sessilis can be considered as a good accumulator of Cr, Ni, Cd and Pb but is capable of hyperaccumulating As.