Elaeis guineensis Jacq. as a Bioindicator of Aluminum Hydroxide-Induced Cytogenotoxicity in Root Meristems

This study evaluates the cytotoxic effects of aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)₂) on root growth and cell division of Elaeis guineensis roots. Using Al(OH)₃ concentrations ranging from 5 to 250 mg/L, both radicle growth and nuclear and chromosomal abnormalities, including mitotic indices and the presence of micronuclei, anaphase bridges, and other alterations, were analyzed. The results showed that elevated concentrations of Al(OH)₃ (particularly 150 to 250 mg/L) significantly inhibit root growth, reduce the mitotic index, and increase the frequency of nuclear abnormalities. The presence of aluminum-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) appears to cause DNA damage, which contributes to the formation of micronuclei and other genetic abnormalities. These findings underscore the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of aluminum in acidic soils, which may negatively impact oil palm productivity in cropping contexts. It is concluded that exposure to aluminum hydroxide represents a risk to the genetic stability of E. guineensis and suggests the need to adequately manage aluminum levels in soils used for this crop.