Effect of Copper Exposure on Growth in Hyacinth Bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet)

Abstract

“Heavy metals” is a general collective term, which applies to the group of metals and metalloids with atomic density greater than 4 g/cm3 or more, greater than water. Copper (Cu) is an essential element for all living organisms. Cu is released both naturally and through human activities; it is extensively spread into the environment and often causes environmental pollution. Lablab purpureus is a species of bean in the family Fabaceae. The present study was conducted to understand the effects of different concentration of copper metal stress on the morphology and physiology of Hyacinth bean. Copper stress was induced in 14-day old seedlings of uniform size with half-strength Hoagland media containing CuSO4 (10mM, 50mM, 100mM, 500mM, 1000mM, 1500mM) for a period of 14 days. Growth parameters such shoot length, root length petiole length, leaf area, plant biomass and chlorophyll estimation were carried out. All the growth parameters showed significant reduction when Cu concentration was increased. Concentration of chlorophyll a and b reduced considerably with increase in concentration of copper.