PROPOSED PLANT SPECIES FOR PHYTOREMEDIATION OF PETROLEUM POLLUTED RANGE-LANDS OF SOUTH SUDAN

: The main objective of this recent study was to propose suitable plant species for the Phytoremediation of petroleum-polluted rangelands of South Sudan. Four species were tested, two grasses (Pennisetum and Panicum), and two legumes (Sisbania and Leuceana). Potentiality of species for remediation measured depending on response to hydrocarbon contamination levels (40 and 60 ml.kg-1), at different growth stages (15, 30, 45, and 60 days). Species response is represented by growth parameters and allocation of biomass. Analysis of variance revealed significant effects of hydrocarbon contamination and growth stage on biomass development and allocation, with species-specific responses. Pennisetum and leuceana showed high variability in biomass allocation, while Sisbania exhibited stability, suggesting its resilience to hydrocarbon stress. The obtained results underscore the need for considering these factors when selecting plant species for Phytoremediation and ecological restoration in petroleum contaminated ranges, like those of South Sudan. Depending on the obtained variable responses of the studied species, it would be advised to rely on a multi-species approach for effective Phytoremediation