Effect of Cadmium on Germination and Seedling Growth of Cicer arietinum, Cv.G130

Abstract

Heavy metals contamination in agriculture, especially near industrial areas, is very common, and they are toxic and harmful to for the
growth of plants. Biologically, cadmium (Cd) is a non-essential element for plants and it reduces the germination and seedling growth
of Cicer arietinum. In the present study effects of different cadmium chloride concentrations (1, 10 and 50 mg-1) were investigated on
seedling growth of C. arietinum, L cv. G130. The seedling growth studies were carried out in dark and light conditions. Germination
percentage was recorded after 24 hours for both dark and light conditions. During the observation, it was found that the higher
concentration of cadmium, particularly 50 mg-1, significantly reduced plant growth. The length of epicotyl and radicle shows gradual
inhibition as the cadmium concentration is increased from 10 to 50 mg-1 Cd. Similarly, fresh weight and dry weight also decreased with
the increased cadmium concentrations. It was noted that the higher concentration of Cd inhibited plant growth and the lower metal
concentration showed of plant growth promotion. However, studies reveal that the growth is promoted in 1 mg-1 Cd concentration (1
ppm). Results confirmed cadmium’s toxic effect on chickpea seedling growth at higher concentrations