CATHARANTHUS ROSEUS (L.): A REMARKABLE PHYTOREMEDIATOR FOR HEAVY METALS VIZ., Cd, Pb AND Ni Baby Tabassum*, Mohammad Hashim and Priya Bajaj Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology Govt. Raza P.G. College, Rampur (UP) India - 2020
Phytoremediation is a green technology that involves the use of plants to remove, degrade, or contain contaminants in the environment. In recent years, Catharanthus roseus (L.), commonly known as Madagascar periwinkle or Vinca rosea, has gained attention as a remarkable phytoremediator for heavy metals such as Cd, Pb, and Ni.
Catharanthus roseus is a perennial plant native to Madagascar but is now widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is known for its ornamental value and medicinal properties, but recent studies have also highlighted its ability to accumulate heavy metals from contaminated soil.
Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Catharanthus roseus in removing heavy metals from contaminated soil. The plant's roots absorb the metals from the soil, and the metals are then translocated to the shoots, where they are sequestered in the above-ground biomass. This process helps to reduce the levels of heavy metals in the soil, making it less toxic to other organisms.
In addition to its phytoremediation capabilities, Catharanthus roseus also offers other benefits in polluted environments. The plant's extensive root system helps to improve soil structure and fertility, while its dense foliage provides shade and moisture retention, creating a microclimate that is conducive to the growth of other plants.
Overall, Catharanthus roseus is a valuable phytoremediator for heavy metals, and its use in polluted environments can help to mitigate the harmful effects of contamination on ecosystems and human health. Further research is needed to explore the full potential of this plant in phytoremediation and to identify the mechanisms underlying its metal-accumulating abilities.