Microcosm trial of the use of detergent for mitigation of crude oil toxicity for optimal growth of maize (Zea mays, L)

Abstract

Study on the use of detergent as an ameliorating agent in crude oil polluted soil on hydrocarbon reduction and optimal growth of maize was carried out at the Centre for Ecological Studies, University of Port Harcourt. Pollution level of 3% w/v was remediated with 20 g detergent and 40 g detergent alongside a control (polluted soil without amendment). The amended soil was allowed for 4 weeks before maize seeds were planted in them. Soil total hydrocarbon content (THC) was determined at initial and end of the experiment. Measurements of growth parameters of maize were done monthly for three (3) months. Significant reduction in THC was observed in the treatment soils in the order of 20 g detergent (44.2%)> control (28.0%) > 40 g detergent (19.9%). Maize parameters such as germination, plant height, root length, leaf number, leaf area, fresh and dry weights and chlorophyll content showed significant (P=0.05) increase in 20 g detergent treatment than 40 g detergent and control treatments, except in moisture content (%) and shoot/root ratio which recorded highest level in the 40 g detergent. Therefore, low concentration of detergent is effective for the remediation of crude oil polluted soil for optimal growth performance of maize.

Keywords: detergent, crude oil, toxicity, remediation, maize, hydrocarbon