Phytoremediation using Phyllostachys pubescens (Moso Bamboo) to reduce the risk of chromium exposure

Abstract In this study, a bamboo species, the Phyllostachys pubescens – Moso Bamboo (MB) -, was selected for its heavy metals accumulation and translocation potential to restore Cr-contaminated soil. In order to evaluate the potential for phytoremediation using MB to restore Cr-contaminated soil, pot experiments were carried out in simulated Mediterranean conditions, in laboratory, in a controlled environment, at a temperature of 20°C. Cr removal from soil was 43 % starting from a Cr content of approx. 200 mg/kg Dry Weight and the quantity of Cr per gram of root and rhizome was equal to 1.31 mg/g dw, while the quantity of Cr per gram of stem and leaves was equal to 0.86 mg/g dw, after 12 weeks. Pot experiments confirm that phytoremediation using plants such as MB provides an alternative approach for handling Cr-contaminated soil.