Toxicity of soluble copper and other metal ions to Elodea canadensis

Abstract

A procedure for observing the effects of dissolved copper and other metal ions on the submersed aquatic macrophyte Elodea canadensis has been described. Metal concentrations have been determined which inhibit light-induced oxygen evolution from plant segments after short-term exposure (24h), and which produce phytotoxicity in whole plants over a longer period (28 days). These results are discussed in terms of the phytotoxic effects on Elodea resulting from dissolved metal ions present in polluting concentrations in natural water bodies or from the use of added copper as an aquatic herbicide.