Résumé:
Lead (Pb) is a heavy metal that is highly toxic to plants, animals and humans. it
currently poses significant problems in terms of environmental contamination. Plants, because
of their immobility, are particularly exposed.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the
effect of lead stress on seed germination and seedling growth of Cleome amblyocarpa Barr. &
Murb.
Seeds were germinated in the presence of lead nitrate Pb(NO3)2 at various
concentrations (0, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250ppm) and under controlled conditions
(temperature 26°C and darkness) for 15 days.
The results obtained showed that scarified seeds of Cleome amblyocarpa Barr. & Murb
are characterized by a good germination ability at low lead concentrations. The length of
seedling stems and rootlets and the tolerance index decrease considerably with increasing lead
levels. The increase in Pb levels significantly increases the percentage of phytotoxicity along
the length of the roots of Cleome amblyocarpa Barr. & Murb.
The tolerance threshold is below 150 ppm Pb(NO3)2. Above this level, the germinative
power declines and the toxic effect increases proportionally with the increase in the
concentration of the metallic trace element.
