EFFECT OF SPENT LUBRICATING OIL ON ROOT LENGTH OF Vigna unguiculata (BROWN AND WHITE BEANS) AFTER FOURTEEN DAYS OF GERMINATION

ABSTRACT

The impact of environmental pollutants on plant growth has become a matter of increasing concern in recent years. This project aimed to investigate the effect of spent lubricating oil, a common environmental contaminant, on the root length of brown and white beans after 14 days of germination. In this study, brown and white bean seeds were germinated under controlled conditions, with a control group and experimental groups subjected to the presence of spent lubricating oil. After a 14-day growth period, the root lengths of the beans were measured and compared. The results revealed a significant reduction in root length in both brown and white beans in the experimental groups exposed to spent lubricating oil compared to the control group having mean and SEM values of 0.8 ±0.004 (White beans), 0.5±0.002 (Brown beans) as against the control group with 1.6±0.002 (White beans) and 1.3±0003 (Brown beans). This reduction in root length suggests the adverse effects of spent lubricating oil on the growth and development of both brown and white bean plants. The findings underscore the importance of addressing environmental pollution and its potential consequences for plant growth and agricultural productivity. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms underlying the observed effects and to develop strategies for mitigating the impact of such contaminants on plant life. Understanding the implications of environmental pollutants on plant growth is crucial for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem preservation.