Metal Accumulation of Plants in a Nickel Laterite Mine and Their Phytoremediation and Phytomining Potential

Phytoremediation is an environment-friendly technique that uses plants to extract contaminants like metals from soil. This has found application in waste management and possibly in future mining through phytomining. This study wanted to evaluate the metal accumulation of plants, thriving in a nickel laterite mine for Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, and Zn and determine their potential for phytoremediation or phytomining. The metal accumulation in crops is also highlighted for their possible harmful effects to humans. Samples of soil, roots, stems, leaves, and fruits were gathered. The plants were evaluated based on their metal accumulation in the above-ground part, leaf-to-root ratio, bioaccumulation coefficient (BAC), and translocation factor (TF). The plant Leucaena leucocephala, Pennisetum polystachion, Casuarina cunninghamiana, and Mimosa pudica shows significant accumulation. The crops showed substantial amounts of metal which can be harmful to humans. The planting of hyperaccumulator plants is recommended for future phytomining application but planting crops is highly discouraged due to possible accumulation of metals which can be harmful for humans.