Improving zinc phytoremediation characteristics in Salix pedicellata with a new acclimation approach

Some species of Salix sp. (willows) are a potential phytoremediator that can accumulate substantial contents of mineral elements and, therefore, to detoxify soils contaminated with pollutants and heavy metals such as the zinc (Zn). However, high concentrations of Zn inhibit plant growth and reduce biomass production in plants. In an attempt to overcome this inconvenience and to enhance plant tolerance to Zn toxicity, we tested a new tolerance induction approach by acclimation in two clones of Salix pedicellata, named SPK-12 and SP-K20. The approach comprises two successive phases. The first is a "tolerance induction phase" consisting of gradual exposure of plants to low concentrations of Zn sulfate (ZnSO₄) at regular intervals until reaching DI₁₀₀ (ZnSO₄ inhibitory concentration). And, the second is a "tolerance maintenance phase" to uphold the acquired tolerance to Zn toxicity. The SP-K20 clone was acclimated to DI₁₀₀ threshold over 33 days without noticeable symptoms of chlorosis or growth inhibition. Compared to controls, the SP-K20 clone was able to accumulate high concentrations of Zn, suggesting that phytoremediation abilities of S. pedicellata have been improved throughout the applied approach. Acclimated Salix plants might thus improve metal phytoextraction in heavily polluted soils without biomass growth inhibition.