Study of cadmium and zinc interaction in Matthiola flavida Boiss.

Many of the toxic effects of cadmium (Cd) caused by interactions with essential elements such as zinc (Zn). In this study, the interaction between Cd and Zn in Matthiola flavida (Brassicacea) was examined. Zn in four levels 2, 10, 20 and 40 µM and Cd in 0, 1, 5 and 20 µM with three replicate were used. The seeds were planted in the pit and after two leaves were transferred to a hydroponic environment. Using half-strength Hoagland’s solution was watered for two weeks. After two weeks of treatment, root length, fresh and dry weight, chlorophyll content and the amount of metal accumulated in the plant measured. The results showed that with increasing concentration of Cd and Zn the root length significantly decreased. The root and shoot dry and fresh weight, chlorophyll a, b and total with increasing the concentration of Zn and Cd significantly decreased compared to the control (P≤0.05). Evaluate the amount of element accumulated in the plant showed that accumulation of Cd increased with increase concentration of Cd in the culture medium. The amount of Cd accumulation in M. flavida shoot was higher than root. Zn and Cd ions uptake by plant roots while competing with each other and each other's uptake and transport are impaired. Cd toxicity was reduced with increasing of Zn concentration particularly in the 10 µM.