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ABSTRACT
This experiment was carried out to investigate the impact of simulated acid rain on the growth parameters of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis). The whole fruit was purchased from an open market in Benin City and seeds were cultivated initially in saw dust and germinating seedlings were later transplanted to manure treated soil. The seedlings were transplanted in twenty different bowls categorised into five (5) groups which were labeled pH2, pH3, pH4, pH5 and control. Acid solutions were prepared using tetraoxosulphate (VI) acid (H2SO4) solution with sodium hydroxide (NaOH). Each acid solution was keep in separate spray bottles. The transplanted seedlings were then placed in the screen house and treated with the various acid treatment for three weeks. Various morphological parameters (stem length, leaf length, number of leaves, leaf area, chlorophyll content, fresh and dry weight) were then assayed for in the course of the experiment. Results of the study indicated that the simulated acid rain reduced the fresh and dry weight parameters of T. occidentalis. Also parameters such as Stem length and leaf chlorophyll content of T. occidentalis were also negatively impact in the course of the study. The negative impact of simulated acid rain on the growth parameters of Telfairia occidentalis suggests the need for proper control of the factors initiating acid rain formation and deposit so as to reduce its impact on plant growth and development.
