Growth Response of Lemna minor Exposed to Cd Using PlantCV Image-Based Analysis and Photosynthetic Pigments

The increase in environmental contaminants such as heavy metals in aquatic ecosystems has been on the increase due to an increase in anthropogenic activities. In this study, the effect of varying concentrations (0.8 µg/L, 5.7 µg/L, 9.5 µg/L, 13.1 µg/L, 24.6 µg/L, 37.9 µg/L) of cadmium on Lemna minor was evaluated using an automated image-based analysis PlantCV v.3.8.0 through processing pipeline developed in the Python programing language (v.3.7.3). Chlorophyll was determined using a UV-VIS Spectrophotometer at wavelengths of 664, 647 and 664 nm. There was significant variation (p < 0.05) in the concentration course inhibitory effect of Cd, with the highest inhibition for frond area, convex hull, perimeter and solidity at Cd concentration of 37.9 µg/L. This study demonstrates the applicability of the developed PlantCV measurement pipeline as an efficient and reproducible approach for assessing plant responses, thereby supporting enhanced monitoring and management of aquatic ecosystem health.