Evaluation of Pb, Zn and Cu in Leaves of Mangifera indica, Parkia biglobosa, Azadirachta indica, Delonix Regia, Schefflera arboricola, and Albezia Lebbeck Trees along Major Road Sides in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

High concentration of heavy metals on tree leaves could disrupt mitosis in plant cells, leading to  damage  during  cell  division,  and  thereby  reducing  the  number  of  stomata.  Hence, this study evaluated the concentration of Pb, Zn and Cu in Leaves of Mangifera indica, Parkia biglobosa, Azadirachta indica, Delonix Regia, Schefflera arboricola, and Albezia. Lebbeck trees along Major Road Sides in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria using standard methods. The concentrations of Pb, Zn, and Cu were significantly higher in A. Lebbeck, S. Actinophylla D. Regia than the rest of the plant species.  The trend of metal concentration varied followed the order:  Pb > Zn > Cu. Mean concentrations of Pb, Zn, and Cu were significantly higher in heavy traffic areas than other sampling areas.  The results of the study suggest that the tree leaves samples could potentially serve as bioindicators for Pb, Zn, and Cu in environmental pollution area.