Effects of cadmium on mineral metabolism and antioxidant enzyme activities in Salix matsudana Koidz

Abstract

Salix matsudana Koidz was exposed to different concentrations of Cd (0, 10, 50, and 100 µmol/L) to study the effects of Cd on mineral metabolism and antioxidant enzyme activities. The results showed that plant height and root length were inhibited by 50 and 100 µmol/L Cd, except the one under 10 µmol/L Cd treatment. The Cd content accumulated in different organs of S. matsudana, gradually increasing with increased Cd concentrations and prolonged treatment times. The root was the main organ for absorbing and accumulating Cd. Cd inhibited the accumulation of Fe, Zn, Mn, and Cu. In addition, the activities of antioxidant enzymes and the contents of reactive oxygen species were also changed by different concentrations of Cd. The results obtained here can provide scientific and objective data for the use of S. matsudana in the remediation of Cd-contaminated soil.