Byrsonima basiloba as a bioindicator of simulated air pollutants: Morphoanatomical and physiological changes in response to potassium fluoride. (June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rodrigues, Douglas Almeida; Filho, Sebastião Carvalho Vasconcelos; Rodrigues, Arthur Almeida; Müller, Caroline; dos Santos Farnese, Fernanda; Costa, Alan Carlos; Teles, Eduardo Matheus Guimarães; Rodrigues, Cássia Lino
• Is Part Of: Ecological indicators. Volume 89(2018)
• Page Start: 301
• Page End: 308
• Publication Date: 2018-06
• Subjects: Anatomy -- Photosynthesis -- Photorespiration -- Respiration -- Fluoride; Environmental monitoring -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environmental impact analysis -- Periodicals; Environmental risk assessment -- Periodicals; Sustainable development -- Periodicals; 333.71405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolind.2018.02.019
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1470-160X

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: Potassium fluoride altered visual, anatomical and physiological plant characteristics. The increase of KF doses led to accumulation of phenolic compounds in the mesophyll. KF decreases photosynthesis and increases respiration. Byrsonima basiloba presents high potential for bioindication regarding fluoride action. Abstract: Fluoride is released in large amounts in the atmosphere by brick, ceramic, phosphate mineral and aluminum industries. It presents the highest phytotoxicity when compared to other air pollutants, damaging different tree species. Byrsonima basiloba Juss. (Malpighiaceae) is a fruit tree widely distributed in anthropic regions, displaying high potential as a bioindicator. In this context, the aim of the present study was to investigate fluoride effects, by means of simulated rainfall, by evaluating morphological and physiological responses of Byrsonima basiloba leaves, in order to assess the bioindicator potential of this species to potassium fluoride (KF). Young plants, approximately 90 days old, were selected through height standardization (∼25 cm) and individually transferred to pots containing 5 L of a substrate composed of washed sand, vermiculite and bioplant® (1:1:1). The plants were submitted to KF exposure daily, by means of simulated rain, at 0, 10, 20 and 30 mg L −1 KF, for 30 days. Byrsonima basiloba revealed the production of reddish pigments on the leaf surface, from the apex to the median region, as well as accumulation of phenolic compounds and reprogramming of plant metabolism. While the pollutant negatively impacted parameters related to photosynthesis and photorespiration, an increase in respiration was observed, probably with the purpose of supplying energy and carbon skeletons to the plants. These results allow for advancements in knowledge regarding plants responses to KF, in addition to demonstrating Byrsonima basiloba potential as a bioindicator regarding this atmospheric pollutant.