Tolerance and sensitivity of Inga marginata and Allophylus edulis to copper excess

The excess of heavy metals such as copper (Cu) in degraded areas worldwide has increased pollution and toxicity in plants. Thus, it is necessary to use phytoremediation species in reforestation programs to reestablish the ecological conditions of the environment. The aim of the study was to evaluate the tolerance/sensitivity of Inga marginata and Allophylus edulis to excess Cu by evaluating morphological, physiological and biochemical variables to define species to be cultivated in environments contaminated with Cu. Seedlings of I. marginata and A. edulis were cultivated at five Cu concentrations: 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 mu M. Each sampling unit consisted of a pot with five plants. Shoot and root morphological variables, photosynthetic variables, chlorophyll a fluorescence, photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant enzyme activity, hydrogen peroxide concentration, lipid peroxidation, Cu concentration and accumulation in tissues were assessed. We found that A. edulis is sensitive to excess Cu and that it can be used as an indicator of contaminated areas. Seedlings of I. marginata tolerated high Cu concentrations, which mainly accumulated in the roots, and did not show a decrease in root and shoot dry weight. Therefore, I. marginata has great potential to be used in the phytoremediation of Cu-contaminated soils.

Automated summary

The aim of the study was to evaluate the tolerance/sensitivity of Inga marginata and Allophylus edulis to excess Cu in order to determine suitable species for reforestation programs in Cu-contaminated areas. It was found that A. edulis is sensitive to excess Cu and can be used as an indicator of contaminated areas. On the other hand, I. marginata showed tolerance to high Cu concentrations and has great potential for phytoremediation of Cu-contaminated soils.