Phytotoxicity

Phytotoxicity describes any adverse effects on plant growth, physiology, or metabolism caused by a chemical substance, such as high levels of fertilizers, herbicides, heavy metals, or nanoparticles.

[2] Changes to plant metabolism and growth are the result of disrupted physiological functioning, including inhibition of photosynthesis, water and nutrient uptake, cell division, or seed germination.

[1] High concentrations of mineral salts in solution within the plant growing medium can result in phytotoxicity, commonly caused by excessive application of fertilizers.

[2] The most relevant heavy metals contributing to phytotoxicity in crops are silver (Ag), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn).

Of these, Co, Cu, Fe, Ni, and Zn are trace elements required in small amounts for enzyme and redox reactions essential in plant development.