The present study evaluates the impact of cadmium (Cd) toxicity on the germination and seedling growth of Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris under controlled laboratory conditions. Seeds were exposed to varying Cd concentrations (0, 10, 20, 50, and 100 ppm), and key growth parameters such as germination percentage, root and shoot length, biomass accumulation, and chlorophyll content were analyzed. A significant decline in germination was observed, with P. vulgaris exhibiting a 94.48% reduction compared to 22.65% in Z. mays. Increasing Cd stress led to a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.01, p < 0.05) in root and shoot length, with P. vulgaris experiencing a more pronounced inhibition (99% and 97%, respectively) than Z. mays (53% and 37%). Biomass accumulation and growth indices including germination index, vigor index, tolerance index, and relative germination rate declined progressively with rising Cd concentrations. While total chlorophyll content increased in Z. mays at 100 ppm (0.325 mg/g FW), P. vulgaris displayed a significant reduction in pigment levels under Cd stress. Over all, Z. mays demonstrated higher tolerance to cadmium toxicity compared to P. vulgaris, suggesting its potential for cultivation in Cd-contaminated soils.

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An official publication of Society for Environment and Development (SED India)