Aquatic Plants as Bioremediators in Pollution Abatement of Heavy Metals

Abstract

Over use of chemical inputs and exploitation of natural resources have degraded our ecosystem to a large extent. Our water bodies are drastically affected, especially due to the impact of heavy metal loading. The biomagnification that results from these difficult to degrade metals is naturally affecting the human health. The physical and chemical methods commonly employed for water purification are not only highly expensive but also further aggravate the pollution problem. Hence, all efforts must be taken to exploit the emerging green technology approach in pollution remediation. Several aquatic plants have specific affinity towards heavy metals and they flourish well in this contaminated environment. The common mechanisms of phytoremediation and varied type of aquatic plants with high remediation potential are reviewed in this chapter.