Impact of Kolanut Biochar on Corchorus olitorius Growthand Nutritional Value in Cadmium-Polluted Soil
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Abstract
Jute (Corchorus olitorius), a nutritionally significant crop, faces severe threats from cadmium(Cd) contamination, primarily originating from industrial waste, which poses substantialhealth risks to consumers. This study investigated the effectiveness of kolanut-derived biochar,produced via pyrolysis at 400 °C, in mitigating Cd toxicity and enhancing the growth andnutritional quality of jute cultivated in Cd-contaminated loamy soil. The experimental setupinvolved twelve pots subjected to various treatments: a control, Cd-only (27mg CdCl₂), and Cdcombined with either 1% or 3% biochar. Over four weeks, physiological parameters,chlorophyll content, and nutrient uptake were meticulously monitored. The findings revealeda significant reduction in chlorophyll content across all biochar treatments, with the 3%biochar application exhibiting the lowest values. While 1% biochar showed a marginalimprovement in plant height, the higher concentration (3%) led to a notable decrease inessential mineral elements such as magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) in both leaves andshoots. This suggests that the induction of nutrient imbalance and potential competitiveinteractions with metals. Although kolanut pod biochar demonstrated some partialameliorative effects against Cd stress, its overall efficacy was limited, and in certain instances,it increased the negative impacts on nutrient uptake. These results stress the importance ofsite-specific considerations for biochar application, underlining the necessity for optimizedconcentrations, extended study durations, and the exploration of diverse biochar types toachieve effective phytoremediation in soils contaminated with cadmium.
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References
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