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VOL. 11, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Effects of microplastic contamination on growth and physiological responses of Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet seedlings
Authors
Krishna N Chihla, Tushar Chaudhari, Nainesh R Modi
Abstract
This study investigates the effects of microplastic contamination on
the growth and physiological parameters of Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet
seedlings. Seedlings were exposed to different concentrations of
microplastics (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2%) and assessed after three weeks of
germination. A significant decline in growth parameters was observed as
microplastic concentration increased. Root length decreased from 17.1 cm in the
control to 12.5 cm at 2% concentration, while shoot length declined from 16.2
cm to 12.2 cm in (2%) concentration. Fresh and dry biomass also showed a marked
reduction, indicating inhibited plant growth and biomass accumulation. Moisture
content remained relatively high across treatments (81.65% to 87.56%), whereas
dry matter content decreased in microplastic-treated plants. Chlorophyll
content exhibited only minor variation, suggesting a limited effect on
photosynthetic pigments. Overall, the results demonstrate that microplastic
contamination adversely affects plant growth and biomass accumulation, while
having comparatively minimal impact on moisture retention and chlorophyll
content. These findings highlight the potential ecological risks of
microplastic pollution to plant development and agricultural productivity
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Pages:276-281
How to cite this article:
Krishna N Chihla, Tushar Chaudhari, Nainesh R Modi "Effects of microplastic contamination on growth and physiological responses of <i>Lablab purpureus</i> (L.) Sweet seedlings". International Journal of Botany Studies, Vol 11, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 276-281
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