Leaf epidermal analysis of some plants in the Ishiagu lead–zinc mining area of South Eastern Nigeria

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Research Paper 01/11/2013
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Leaf epidermal analysis of some plants in the Ishiagu lead–zinc mining area of South Eastern Nigeria

Chidi Enyinnaya Ogbonna, Clement Uwabunkeonye Okeke, Ositadinma Chinyere Ugbogu, Fred Chibuisi Otuu
Int. J. Biosci.3( 11), 122-128, November 2013.
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Abstract

The study examined the leaf epidermis of some plants growing in a lead-zinc mining area of Ishiagu, Nigeria with the aim of evaluating possible impacts of heavy metal stress on leaf structure. Seven dominant plant species, Adiantum caudatum, Alchornea cordifolia, Centrosema pubescens, Clotalaria retusa, Millettia aboensis, Urena lobata and Vitex doniana were selected for the study. Analysis of photomicrographs showed clear differences between study site and control samples. In comparison with study site samples, control samples generally had well defined stomata with intact guard cells, and showed no signs of wrinkles or necrosis. This indicates that the study site environment, a heavy metal mining area, had adverse impacts on plant physiological status.

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