Amelioration of Toxic Effects of Lead in Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek with the Application of Pseudomonas fluorescens

Pollution by heavy metals is one of the important threatening factors in the world. The present study was intended to analyse the effect of lead (Pb) on seed germination, growth and chlorophyll content of Vigna radiata (L). Wilczek. Germination parameters like germination percentage, radicle and hypocotyl length, vigour index and growth index were studied, and found to be decreased with increasing concentrations. Phytotoxicity level increased at elevated concentrations. At higher concentrations, severe morphological symptoms and reduction in chlorophyll content were observed. However, by treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens, a plant growth promoting rhizobacterium, a significant increase in all parameters was observed.