Phytoremediation of Mercury in Soil: Analysis of the Responses of Mimosa pudica L. and Jatropha curcas L.

Objective: The objective of this work was to investigate the performance of these species in soils contaminated with different concentrations of mercury, evaluating parameters such as germination, stem growth, leaf development, and root characteristics. Method: The experiment was conducted in the laboratories of Block E of the Federal Technological University of Paraná (UTFPR), Campo Mourão Campus. The soil used was collected near the university, sieved and dried, ensuring uniformity in the substrate. Results and Discussion: The results obtained demonstrate that the presence of mercury (HgO) in the soil significantly influences the growth of Mimosa pudica L. and Jatropha curcas L. Final Considerations: The results obtained indicate that mercuric oxide (HgO) has a specific negative impact on the growth and development of the proven plants, Mimosa pudica L. and Jatropha curcas L., especially at higher concentrations. These results are in agreement with previous studies, such as that of Sharma et al. (2018), which report that mercury directly interferes with plant physiology, reducing the absorption of essential nutrients and causing oxidative stress.