Nickel and copper effect on biomass, pigment content and antioxidative enzymes in roots and leaves of maize (Zea mays L.)

Copper and nickel are an essential micronutrient for plants, playing an important role in maintaining plant's natural metabolism and growth, but in excess both heavy metal are also a proven inhibitor of various physiological functions. In this study maize (Zea mays L.) plants grown in hydroponic culture were treated with CuSO4 (0, and 100 μm),NiSO4 (0,100 and 200μm)and interaction of CuSO4 (100 μm)and NiSO4 (100 and 200 μm). After 1 mounth of treatment, growth parameters and some biochemical changes were studied in roots and shoots of plants. The results showed that with increasing Cu and Ni concentration, pigment contents (chlorophyll a, b and total carotenoids), root and shoot length and dry weight were decreased, while k+ leakage, malondealdyde as indicator lipid of peroxidation and some antioxidant enzyme activity were increased. Also result showed that interaction of Cu and Ni has been cooperation effects on together and intensify each other's work.