Effect of Mercury Exposure on Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea) Seeds

Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea) seeds were grown under controlled environment in solution of mercury at different concentrations. The eco-toxicity of mercury on the seed germination, early seedling growth, metabolite level, enzyme activities and the uptake of heavy metal content in the seeds were tested. It may be concluded that the inhibition of germination, rate of germination and growth of seeds of Vigna unguiculata in response to mercury demonstrate that they are suppressed not only the protrusion of radical or delayed the germination but also retarded the growth. The seedling growth is more sensitive to heavy metal (Hg²⁺) in comparison to seed germination. Mercury treatment is potentially toxic to Vigna unguiculata ischolar_main than shoot. Absorption depends on the ability of the ischolar_main and may have an influence on synthesis of protein, carbohydrate, activity of enzyme and phenolic content, some of which can be enhanced, while others get inhibited. The sensitivity of Vigna unguiculata seeds in terms of biochemical changes and enzyme activities was remarkably noticeable. The results suggest that biochemical changes and enzyme activity in Vigna unguiculata plants is promising indicator of heavy metal toxicity. Vigna unguiculata assay should be further explored so that its value can be evaluated when more data are available.