Phytoextraction potential of cadmium and lead contamination using Melia azedarach and Populus alba seedlings

Vegetative growth, biomass, chemical content and uptake of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in Melia azedarach L. (chinaberry) and Populus alba L. (white poplar) seedlings were investigated using a 2-year pot experiment. The results indicated that P. alba and M. azedarach are tolerant to contaminated soil by Cd or Pb without any toxicity symptoms. Vegetative growth and chemical properties of M. azedarach are negatively affected by Cd more than Pb whereas, biomasses are negatively affected by Pb little than Cd. Likewise, vegetative growth and chemical properties are negatively affected by Cd more than Pb however, biomasses are negatively affected by Cd and Pb with the same significant level. Both species accumulate more concentrations of Cd and Pb in their roots than in leaves and stem. As a result, P. alba and M. azedarach are considered suitable phytoremediators for contaminated soils by Cd or Pb. Keywords: Phytoremediation, contamination, heavy metals, cadmium, lead, Populus alba, Melia azedarach . African Journal of Biotechnology , Vol 13(53) 4726-4732