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Pak. J. Bot., 47(SI): 275-280, 2015.

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Exploring germinating potential of tree species in domestic wastewater for use in urban forestry

Amina Kanwal^1*, Safdar Ali Mirza¹ and Muhammad Farhan^2,3

¹Department of Botany, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan

²Biological Sciences Department, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), Lahore, Pakistan

³Sustainable Development Study Center, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan

^*Corresponding author’s e-mail: aminakanwal2006@yahoo.com

Abstract: Domestic wastewater is an important source of water and nutrients for irrigation in developing countries, particularly to arid, semi-arid and water scarce areas. The use of wastewater is widespread and represents around 10 percent of the total irrigation. It imparts both positive and negative effects on ecosystem. As wastewater reuse is currently necessary (due to water shortage), it is important to use it wisely. The best feasible management practice is to use wastewater for forest irrigation to maximize benefits and minimize damage. Species which have higher tolerance index can be used in urban forestry. In the present study, germination studies of 5 tree species were investigated, irrigated with domestic wastewater (in different concentrations). Statistical analysis revealed that germination %, seedling length/weight increase with increase in DWW concentration. But concentration beyond 50% starts imparting negative effects. Study shows that only Millettia peguensis Ali, Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre, Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth, Bauhinia purpurea L. and Dalbergia sissoo L. can withstand toxicity of domestic wastewater and thus can be the potential candidate for urban forestry. These species show significantly high vigor index, germination index and tolerance index. Result supports the use of 50% diluted DWW for forest irrigation. This study highlights the possible solution (DWW use for urban forest irrigation) to multiple problems like, wastewater management/treatment, biodiversity loss, lack of urban green spaces and low forest cover.

Key Words: Domestic wastewater, germination, urban forestry, Fabaceae,