Introduction

Water pollution is a major environmental problem that can lead to severe health hazards. Several types of industries, human activities, and natural processes contribute to water pollution. To address this problem, several techniques are being implemented worldwide. One such technique is phytoremediation, where plants are used to remove hazardous pollutants from water. In this article, we will focus on the types of plants that are effective in purifying water and their mechanism of action.

Types of Plants

Several types of plants are effective in removing pollutants from water. Some commonly used plants include water hyacinths, bulrushes, cattails, and water lettuce. These plants are chosen based on their ability to store pollutants in their tissue, absorb nutrients from the water, and stimulate the growth of microorganisms that can break down pollutants. The selection of plants also depends on the type of pollutant present in the water.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of plants in filtering water is based on several physiological and biochemical processes. Some of these processes include absorption, adsorption, and precipitation. When the roots of plants absorb water, they also absorb certain pollutants present in the water. The pollutants are then transported to the leaves or stems of the plant, where they are stored or broken down. In some cases, pollutants are adsorbed on the surface of the plant tissue or suspended solids. Plant roots also secrete certain chemicals that can promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms that can break down pollutants. Some plants can precipitate certain pollutants out of water by converting them into insoluble compounds.

Effectiveness of Plants

Plants have been found to be highly effective in purifying water in several studies. The effectiveness of plants in removing pollutants from water depends on several factors, including the type of pollutant present in the water, the type of plant used, and the environmental conditions. Studies have shown that certain plants can remove up to 90% of pollutants present in water within a few weeks. The effectiveness of plants in removing pollutants from water is also dependent on the size and density of the plant population. In some cases, plants can be used in combination with other techniques such as sedimentation, filtration, and chemical treatment for better results.

Conclusion

Water pollution is a major environmental concern that can lead to severe health hazards. Phytoremediation is an effective technique that uses plants to remove pollutants from water. Several types of plants, including water hyacinths, bulrushes, cattails, and water lettuce, are effective in purifying water. The mechanism of action of plants in filtering water is based on several physiological and biochemical processes, including absorption, adsorption, and precipitation. Studies have shown that plants can remove up to 90% of pollutants present in water. The effectiveness of plants in purifying water can be further enhanced by using them in combination with other techniques.