Phytoremediation Capacity of Egeria Densa for Heavy Metal Contaminated Wastewater and Its Applicability for Constructed Wetland

Introduction: Phytoremediation is an environmental restoration process that utilizes plant physiology and metabolism. The study was performed on a laboratory scale to assess the heavy metal removal efficiency of Egeria densa, its response to contaminated wastewater, and its potential application in constructed wetlands. Materials and Methods: Synthetic wastewater samples with low, moderate, and high concentrations of Cr, Cu, Fe, and Zn were prepared for this study. E. densa was cultivated in these samples for 14 days under controlled conditions, and parameters such as heavy metal removal efficiency, growth rates, chlorophyll content, and water quality indices were analyzed. Results: Results showed that In low heavy metal-contaminated wastewater, the removal efficiency of E. densa for Cr, Cu, Fe, and Zn was 93.7%, 91.20%, 87.2%, and 100%, respectively. In highly heavy metal-contaminated wastewater, the heavy metal removal efficiency of E. densa for Cr, Cu, Fe, and Zn was 36%, 54%, 35.2%, and 75%, respectively.  Therefore, this study revealed that elevated heavy metal concentrations adversely affected plant growth rates. Conclusion: E. densa is a viable option for constructed wetland systems in scenarios where wastewater is contaminated with heavy metals from low to moderate levels. These findings can serve as a reference for future studies and provide valuable insights for researchers seeking to implement E. densa as constructed wetland vegetation.