Effects of urban atmospheric particulate matter on higher plants using Lycopersicon esculentum as model species

Abstract

Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) is one of the major environmental concerns in Europe. A wide range of studies has proved the ecotoxic potential of atmospheric particles. PM exerts chemical stress on vegetation by its potentially toxic constituents; however, relatively few studies are available on assessing phytotoxic effects under laboratory conditions. In our study, aqueous extract of particulate matter was prepared and used for treatment. Experiment was following the procedure defined by the No. 227 OECD Guideline for the Testing of Chemicals: Terrestrial Plant Test. Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) plants were used; elucidated toxicity was assessed based on morphological and biochemical endpoints such as biomass, chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b, carotenoids, and protein content. Biomass reduction and protein content showed a clear dose–effect relationship; the biomass decreased in comparison with the control (100%) in all test groups (TG) at a steady rate (TG1: 87.73%; TG2: 71.77%; TG3: 67.01%; TG4: 63.63%). The tendency in protein concentrations compared to the control was TG1: 113.61%; TG2: 148.21% TG3: 160.52%; TG4: 157.31%. However, pigments showed a ‘Janus-faced’ effect: nutrient content of the sample caused slight increase at lower doses; actual toxicity became apparent only at higher doses (chlorophyll-a concentration decrease was 84.47% in TG4, chlorophyll-b was 77.17%, and finally, carotene showed 83.60% decrease in TG4).

Plant Responses to Global Climate Change and Urbanization: Implications for Sustainable Urban Landscapes

“…Species like Achillea millefolium, Chenopodium album, Echium vulgare, Convolvulus arvensis, and Centaurea scabiosa have proven effective in this regard [71]. Hubai et al [78] investigated the toxicity of tomato plants in a simulated urban environment, revealing that the nutrient content increased at lower concentrations of chemical substances found in cities, with a decrease observed only at higher doses. Understanding the responses and adaptations of urban vegetation to various environmental stressors is critical for implementing effective strategies to promote sustainable urban development and enhance the quality of life for city dwellers.…”

Impact of Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5) from a Thermoelectric Power Plant on Morpho-Functional Traits of Rhizophora mangle L. Leaves

“…PM contains trace elements (heavy metals) which cause oxidative stress in plants, degrade chlorophyll molecules, and reduce the efficiency of chloroplasts; altogether, these affect the photosynthetic rate and ultimately reduce growth rate [17,53,54]. In most plants, cadmium toxicity produces two recognizable symptoms: leaf chlorosis and reduced root growth rate [53,54].…”

“…Plants are directly exposed to air pollutants, enduring practically lifelong exposure. The harmful effects of airborne particles on higher plants include morphological, physiological, and biochemical alterations [17]. One of the important morphological characteristics is stomatal characterization because stomata play a vital role in maintaining plant homeostasis [18].…”

Effect of dust accumulation on Quercus cerris L. leaves in the Ezer forest, Lebanon

“…The observed increase in the concentration of carotenoid pigments in Quercus cerris leaves may be an adaptation to tolerate air pollution stress (Turfan & Mese 2019). Hubai et al (2021) noted that the resistance and adaptation of plants to ambient air pollution can be observed by changes in the content of photosynthetic pigments. Shen et al (2018), in their study on wheat leaves exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons pollution, stated that the accumulation of carotenoid pigments outside of the chloroplast thylakoids exhibits an important role in the protection of cells.…”