Bioaccumulation of Mercury and Its Consequences on Morphological and Biochemical Parameters in Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum L.)

Abstract

Introduction: Natural and anthropogenic sources of metals within the ecosystem have led to significant accumulation of heavy metals accumulation, which poses a serious environmental concern, affecting the food chains and cause various health issues due to their toxicity nature.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioaccumulation of mercury and its consequences on morphological and biochemical parameters in Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum L.).

Methods: Experimental plants were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 plants in bag served as control received normal nutritional and water support, Heavy metal toxicity was induced in Group 2, 3 and 4 by mercury treatment of 25, 50 and 100 mg throughout the experimental period.

Results: Results showed that mercury treated fenugreek plants exhibits significant reduction in germination percentage, root length, shoot length, fresh weight, dry weight, vigour index, chlorophyll a, b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, carbohydrate, protein contents, catalase and super oxide dismutase.

Conclusions: Together results portray that mercury exhibits toxic effects in Fenugreek plants can significantly affect their growth and development. So effective management strategies are necessary in reducing the mercury toxicity and ensure protecting both the plant health as well as safety of foods.