Removal of 2,4-dichlorophenol in hydroponic solution by four Salix matsudana clones

Using plants to treat polluted sites and groundwater is an approach called phytoremediation. The aim of the present study was to investigated the toxicity, uptake, accumulation, and removal of 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) in four Salix matsudana clones and to screen the feasibility of phytoremediation using S. matsudana clones. Willows were exposed to 2,4-DCP in hydroponic solution with the concentrations of 10, 20 and 30 mg L−1 for 96 h. The biomass of shoots and roots were reduced. Chlorophyll content decreased significantly compared with the control. All root morphology values were different between clones and different concentrations. The 2,4-DCP endurance of four S. matsudana clones was gauged as follows: clone 18> clone 22> clone 8> clone 10. S. matsudana was found to promote 2,4-DCP removal relative to the contaminated solution without plants. From 52.2% to 73.7% of 2,4-DCP were removed by all treatments after 96 h exposure. 2,4-DCP was mainly accumulated in roots than in shoots. Clone 22 was the most efficient for the accumulation of 2,4-DCP in plant tissues. The removal of 2,4-DCP from the media may result from its degradation or polymerized in the root zone by the plant enzymes. Phytoremediation of 2,4-DCP with S. matsudana clone 8, 18 and 22 seem to be a viable option, especially at lower concentrations. These clones could remove 2,4-DCP from aquatic environment rapidly and efficiently. In addition, the toxic effect on trees during the removal process is not lethal.

► The 2,4-DCP endurance of four Salix matsudana clones was gauged as follows: clone 18>clone 22>clone 8>clone 10.
► S. matsudana accumulated 2,4-DCP mainly in roots than in shoots.
► Four S. matsudana clones promoted 52.2–73.7% 2,4-DCP removal from hydroponic solutions.