Experimental Investigation of Phytodesalination and Growth Rate of Duckweed (Lemna minor) in Saltwater Hydroponics

Less than 1% of the Earth's water, a nonrenewable resource, is accessible as fresh water to us.Global warming, industrialization, and the growing human population exacerbate food and freshwater shortages.This investigation explores the potential of duckweed as a phytodesalinating agent for saltwater to address these issues.Duckweed (0.63 g) was grown hydroponically in different saline solutions (1%, 2%, and 3% salinity) and a commercial hydroponic nutrient solution (HS) as a control.Electrical conductivity (EC) and pH were measured every 3 days over 30 days, with spectrum (red/purple) grow lights on a 16/8 hour cycle.The average EC decrease for the 1% saline solution (SS) was 18.64% S/cm, the 2% SS decreased by 9.09%, and the 3% SS decreased by 6.27% S/cm, indicating effective desalination.Phytodesalination rate change (PRC) highlighted the most effective desalination date for each saline solution.A paired t-test was conducted to validate the significance of the desalination rates.Duckweed fresh weight increased by 1% and 2% in saline solutions but decreased by 3% due to the decay of duckweed.This research highlights duckweed's potential as a sustainable solution to alleviate water scarcity and food insecurity in a warming climate.