PJB-2020-86
EFFECTS OF UNUSED AND DIFFERENT GRADES OF SPENT ENGINE OIL ON THE GERMINATION, GROWTH AND PLANT BIOACTIVE CONTENTS OF VIGNA UNGUICULATA (COWPEA)
PASCHAL CHISOM UBBOH
Abstract
The indiscriminate disposal of engine oil into gutters, landfills, farms and water drains is a common practice in Nigeria especially by motor mechanics. This research work was carried out to determine the effects of unused and different grades of spent engine oil on the percentage germination of Vigna unguiculata plants, its effects on plant growth parameters (plant height, number of leaves, stem girth and leaf area) as well as on plant bioactive contents (Vitamin C, Chlorophyll, Lycopene and β-carotene). Seventy eight (78) polythene bags, used for planting, were filled with three kilograms (3kg) of the Sandy-loam soil. Six (6) polythene bags were not mixed with engine oil and served as control while the remaining Seventy two (72) polythene bags were thoroughly mixed with various concentrations of unused, 2 month old, 4 months old and 6 months old spent oil. Three different concentrations (50ml, 100ml and 150ml) of these contaminants were used, of which each treatment had six replicates. Monitoring was done for eight weeks. Plant bioactive contents were determined after the monitoring period using standard methods. The result showed that all concentrations of unused engine oil and higher concentrations (100ml and 150ml) of all grades of spent engine oil reduced percentage germination while lower concentration (50ml) of all grades of spent engine oil had no effect on percentage germination. All concentrations of both unused and different grades of spent engine oil significantly affected all plant growth parameters in a concentration dependent manner with higher concentrations having more negative effects, and stem girth being the least affected. A significant decrease in plant bioactive contents was observed. Plant bioactive contents decreased with increased concentration of engine oil in the soil. Increased duration of usage of engine oil was observed to lead to a decrease in its negative effects on production of these plant bioactive contents. These results shows that the presence of both unused and different grades of spent engine oil in the soil had serious implications on the growth and development of Vigna unguiculata and therefore for crop safety and food security, there is need for adequate enlightenment on the indiscriminate disposal of engine oil.
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