By Iwuala, E.N. and _Odjegba, V.J.
Abstract
In this study, pot experiment was carried out to determine the effects of crude oil pollution on the phytochemical production in Rhizophora mangle. Seedlings raised from propagules (viviparous seeds) were exposed to 1%, 3% and 5% concentrations of crude oil for 3 weeks. Physiological parameters as well as quantitative analysis of the phytochemical status of the seedlings were evaluated after the treatment period. The results showed that R. mangle seedlings were sensitive to crude oil toxicity and the effects were concentration dependent. It was observed that the treatment consistently reduced the phytochemical content as well as the growth index evaluated. However, there was a significant increase in the malondialdehyde level when plants were exposed to crude oil indicating oxy-radical production. The results may imply that crude oil treatment modulates phytochemical production and induced oxidative damage in R. mangle.