Effects of copper and vanadium salts on morphology of carrot (Daucus carota L. subsp. sativus (Hoffm.) Schübl

Around the world, a major concern in researches on heavy metals is placed on their toxic effect on living organisms. The problem with heavy metals occurrence in the environment is not only associated with their toxicity, but also with their ability to accumulate inside living organisms. This study presents the effect of copper and vanadium ions on the germination and growth of carrot and wheat plants. The experiment was carried out in two independent series with ten repetitions each. The water solutions of copper (CuSO4) and vanadium (H4NO3V) salts with the concentrations of 0.3 mM, 0.6 mM, 3 mM, and 6 mM were used. The control groups were objects watered with distilled water. The conducted experiment showed that the copper and vanadium ions had negative effects on the germination and growth of tested plants. With the increasing concentration of heavy metal ions, an inhibition of seeds germination was observed. The length of carrot and wheat seedlings in each salt solution was inhibited, compared to the control group. During the growth phase, the stimulation of wheat leaves growth only in copper solutions with concentration 0.3 mM and 0.6 mM was observed. Depending on the copper and vanadium ions concentrations, changes in the fresh and dry masses and the content of water were observed.