Comparison of Canna indica, Pontederia sagittata and Heliconia rostrata as phytoremediator species in the treatment of gray water in Úrsula Galván, Ver.

Artificial wetlands began to be used as tools for wastewater treatment. It was found that these could be built following the same operating principle as natural wetlands, which since they existed have fulfilled the function of storing and purifying wastewater. water. In some studies, the species: Canna indica, Pontederia sagittata and Heliconia spp. have shown potential for contaminant removal. Due to the high demand for these plants as phytoremediation species, several studies have evaluated the role of Heliconia in wastewater remediation, finding positive effects in bioremediation (Ascuntar and Toro 2007, Gómez and Segura 2008, Gutiérrez 2009, Sandoval 2009, Peña et al., 2011). Pontederia cordata has a root system, which has microorganisms associated with it that favors the purifying action of aquatic plants, retaining heavy metals (Cd, Hg, As) in their tissues. In addition, it removes some organic compounds, such as phenols, formic acid, dyes and pesticides, and reduces levels of BOD5, COD and suspended solids. (Celis et al., 2005). The species Canna indica is considered an effective plant for phytoremediation due to its physiological and morphological properties.