Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences: Research Areas

Article Title: Evaluation of Some Plant Species for Soluble Sugar and Air Pollution Tolerance Index in Oleh Metropolis, Isoko South L. G. A., Delta State, Nigeria
by Irerhievwie G.O, Akpoghelie, J. O. and Esiefarienrhe, E.

Abstract:
Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) for seven (7) plant species growing along the Oleh metropolis in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria were analyzed. Four biochemical parameters such ascorbic acid (AA), total chlorophyll (TCh), leaf extract pH and relative water content (RWC) were used to compute the air pollution tolerance index (APTI). The fifth biochemical parameter- soluble sugar- was used to further establish the extent of pollution within the vicinity. Results from analysis showed the order of tolerance as Ceiba pentandra (1.27)% > Irvingia gabonenesis (1.44)% > Dendrocalamus calostachyus (2.77)% > Hevea brasiliensis (12.78)% > Vernonia amygdalina (21.73)% > Citrus sinensis L. (27.27)% > Chrysophyllum albidum (29.38)%. Chrysophyllum albidum was comparatively the most tolerant species while Ceiba pentandra was the most sensitive species to air pollution. Also, the study revealed a significant loss of soluble sugar in all tested species at the polluted sites as compared to the control site. This could be attributed to increased respiration and decreased CO2 fixation as a result of chlorophyll deterioration. The results showed that combining variety of these parameters gave a more reliable deduction than that from individual parameter. The APTI determination provides a reliable method for screening sensitive and tolerant plants under field conditions and so, ideal for landscaping.

Keywords: air pollution tolerance index, Ascorbic acid, relative water content, leaf extract pH, soluble sugar,

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