Cadmium accumulation and toxicity in watercress (Barbarea verna), chicory (Cichorium endivia) and rocket (Eruca sativa) plants

Abstract

Some vegetables have the ability to accumulate cadmium (Cd) at levels that are toxic to most other plants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the Cd accumulation and its toxic effects on edible vegetables. Three species were tested: watercress (Barbarea verna); chicory (Cichorium endivia); rocket (Eruca sativa) and four Cd doses (0; 1.5; 3.0; 6.0 mg kg -1 ), with three replications. We evaluated Cd concentration, fresh and dry mass and SPAD index. We calculated tolerance index (TI), translocation index (TR) and the transfer coefficient (TC). Rocket, chicory and watercress are susceptible to Cd contamination and chicory presented visual symptoms of toxicity (chlorosis and mass loss).The Cd contents above those allowed were 0.6; 0.56 and 1.03 mg kg -1 in rocket, watercress and chicory, respectively, these values were reached by applying doses from 1.5 mg kg -1 for rocket and 3 mg kg -1 for watercress and chicory.