Phytoremediation Using a Diversity of Plant Species: A Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31315/mtj.v2i2.14673Keywords:
Contamination, Heavy Metal, PhytoremediationAbstract
Phytoremediation has emerged as a sustainable, plant-driven technology for mitigating heavy metal contamination in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. This review systematically analyzes 35 peer-reviewed studies to assess the phytoremediation potential of diverse plant species, focusing primarily on their roles in absorbing, accumulating, and stabilizing toxic metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg). The mechanisms explored include phytoaccumulation, phytostabilization, and phytovolatilization—each influenced by plant-specific physiological traits, environmental conditions, and contaminant properties.
Among the reviewed species, Brassica juncea, Vetiveria zizanioides, Azolla pinnata, and Lemna minor were consistently identified as high-performing candidates. Azolla pinnata, for example, demonstrated removal efficiencies exceeding 95% for Fe and 98% for Mn within a seven-day period, while Lemna minor showed up to 99.5% Mn and 98.8% Cu removal, highlighting their rapid uptake capacity and environmental adaptability. These findings reinforce the critical importance of species selection based on contaminant type, site characteristics, and remediation goals.
The review emphasizes that the success of phytoremediation is largely determined by the plant’s growth rate, metal tolerance, and ability to accumulate contaminants in aboveground biomass. Aquatic macrophytes such as Eichhornia crassipes and Lemna spp. offer additional advantages due to their fast growth, minimal land use, and suitability for constructed wetland systems. Overall, this study underscores the strategic value of plant biodiversity in designing effective phytoremediation frameworks and supports the integration of species-specific strategies for post-mining and industrial site rehabilitation.
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