Phytostabilization of tannery contaminated soil using naturally colonized plant species Ricinus communis and Calotropis procera

Abstract

The present study involves assessment of four metals (Cr, Pb, Cu and Mn) and its mobility in Ricinus communis and Calotropis procera growing on tannery contaminated soil (TCS). The area is moderately to strongly contaminated with Cr. Except for Cr, all analyzed metals were found within critical range in TCS and in both the plants. Translocation and bioconcentration factor assessment showed TF< 1 and BCF > 1 for both the plants,which justifies major transfer and accumulation of Cr from soil to root. As these plants are not grazed by grazing animals, ecological metal transfer risks from these plants are quite low. High commercial importance such as biofuel production with medicinal values further enhances its utilization for phytostabilisation of moderately Cr contaminated sites.