Arsenic Phytotoxicity in Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.Var. PU19) and its Possible Amelioration by Phosphate Application

Arsenic Phytotoxicity in Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.Var. PU19) and its Possible Amelioration by Phosphate Application

To study the toxic effect of arsenic on black gram (Vigna mungo var. PU19) a pot experiment was conducted. Arsenic reduced the germination percentage and root and shoot length of black gram. Higher dose of arsenic (100 μM sodium arsenate) significantly reduced the level of photosynthetic pigments. Increased oxidative stress was observed as evident from enhanced level of lipid peroxidation and electrolyte leakage percentage. However, decreased catalase activity indicated its failure as antioxidant enzyme against arsenic exposure. Treatment of phosphate together with arsenic induced growth and metabolism in black gram as compared to arsenic treatment alone.