Cadmium accumulation and distribution in cucumber plant

Abstract

An experiment developed in soilless culture was used to study the cadmium (Cd) accumulation, and distribution of Cd in cucumber (Cucumis sativus var. peonero‐mixfl) plant. Four treatments were established (0, 5, 10, and 20 mg Cd⁺² L^‐1). Uptake, and transport of Cd were increased with time, and Cd concentration in the nutrient solution. Fruit accumulation of Cd varied from 16 to 92 mg kg^‐1 depending on the treatments. The fresh weight, and dry matter accumulation of cucumber plant organs (roots, stem, leaves, and fruits) was affected by cadmium treatment. A decrease of the total, a, and b chlorophyll increasing Cd concentration in nutrient solution, and time of experiment were observed. The incidence of this metal on the content of chlorophyll b seem to be faster than chlorophyll a. Cucumber plant could be a feasible plant for pollution experiments due to their high sensibility, and transport efficiency.