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ABSTRACT
This study investigated the impact of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles of Telfairia occidentalis Hook. f. grown in soil contaminated with cadmium- a heavy metal known for its detrimental effects on plant growth and development. Telfairia occidentalis, commonly known as fluted pumpkin, serves as an essential vegetable crop in many regions due to its nutritional value and economic significance. However, the presence of heavy metals like cadmium inn soil poses a serious threat to its growth and productivity. The study aims to explore whether the application of ZnO nanoparticles can mitigate the adverse effects of cadmium pollution on Telfairia occidentalis. The experimental treatments include various concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles applied to Telfairia occidentalis plants cultivated in cadmium-polluted soil. Parameters such as the number of leaves, plant height, stem girth, internode length; number of nodes, and leaf area were evaluated to assess the physiological responses of the plants to cadmium stress and ZnO nanoparticle treatment.The results of this experiemet suggest that ZnO nanoparticles have the potential to be utilized as a remediation strategy to mitigate the detrimental effects on T.occidentalis cultivation. Further research however, is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of ZnO nanoparticle action and optimize their application for sustainable crop production in cadmium-contaminated environments.
