Evaluation of phytoremediation of petroleum hydrocarbon and heavy metals with using Catharanthus roseus

Crude oil pollution is an inevitable worldwide phenomenon in oil producing and consuming areas that stems from human error، accidental discharge and other sources. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytoremediation potential of vinca in petroleum-polluted soil. The experiment was laid out as a completely randomized design in 3 replications with different concentrations of crude oil (0، 0. 5، 1، 2، 3 and 4 % V/W in pot planting stage). At the end of the 70-day period، soil samples were analyzed for total hydrocarbons removal. Contents of pb، zn and Ni were measured by atomic absorption from the soils and the leaves. Statistical analysis of data were performed on the basis of duncan’s test and by using of SPSS16 software. In concentrations higher than 3 % no growth was observed. The growth parameters such as stem length، stem fresh and dry matter decreased progressively from 0. 5-3 % crude oil in soil. The results showed heavy metal accumulation in plant leaves and reduction of them in the soil. Heavy metals containing zinc، lead and nickel in plant increased in different concentration of crude oil. Total hydrocarbons and heavy metals containing zinc، lead and nickel reduced were in planted contaminated soil. This study showed that Periwinkle was able to grow and survive in low concentrations of oil and reduced pollutants in the soil. Based upon these results، Catharanthus roseus can be used as phytoremediator of petroleum-contaminated soil in low concentrations.