Screening Salix spp. genotypes (willow) for their potential bioremediate landfill leachate

摘要

One hundred and twenty Salix spp. (willow) genotypes were screened for their response to landfill leachate. Small plants were grown in sand from hardwood cuttings. When they had developed good leaf and root systems they were watered weekly with leachate at a rate equivalent to 45 kg N ha'1 y1. The response of the genotypes was assessed by measuring height and growth rate, final biomass production and leaf chlorophyll content. In general leachate had a limited impact on growth with only a few genotypes having larger plants when irrigated with leachate compared to the water controls. Similarly, at the leachate rates used, there were no obvious signs of plant stress and no significant difference in leaf chlorophyll content. This preliminary screen indicated that almost all willow genotypes have the potential to be used for bioremediation of landfill leachate. However, subsequent studies did indicate that a limited number of genotypes may be particularly effective.