THE INFLUENCE OF CADMIUM AND CHROMIUM ON THE BIOMASS PRODUCTION OF SHISHAM (DALBERGIA SISSOO ROXB.) SEEDLINGS

The present study investigated the effects of Cadmium (Cd) and Chromium (Cr) on the growth of Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo Roxb.) seedlings. Metal elements were applied in the form of Cd(SO4)2 and K2CrO4 at variegated concentrations of 0, 10, 20, 40 and 80 mg L-1 under controlled conditions of light and temperature for four weeks. Response of the seedlings was monitored in terms of number of leaves, shoot and root length, leaves, root and shoot weight (fresh and oven dry) and chlorophyll contents. Decline in growth was recorded after 10 mg L-1 and 40 mg L-1 for Cr and Cd application respectively. Similarly, combined application of Cd and Cr showed growth reduction beyond 20 mg L-1 dose. Chromium appeared to be more toxic to Dalbergia sissoo as compared to Cd at seedling stage.