Impacts of five selected heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb & Zn) on growth performance of wheat crop (Triticum aestivum L.): A brief review

Wheat is indeed a crucial dietary staple globally, but its quality and yield can be severely affected by heavy metal contamination in the soil. Heavy metals like cadmium, copper, nickel, lead and zinc are necessary in trace amounts for plant growth, but in high concentrations, they become toxic. Urbanization, industrial development and agricultural practices all contribute to the accumulation of heavy metals (HM) in the soil, primarily through atmospheric deposition, sewage, fertilizers, pesticides and irrigation. This contamination negatively impacts wheat seed germination, plant growth and ultimately, crop yield and quality. To mitigate heavy metal contamination, various remediation techniques can be employed, such as pH modifications and phytoremediation, which involves using plants to remove pollutants from the soil. Additionally, detecting contaminated areas and implementing focused investigations are essential to reduce human exposure to these harmful substances. It's also crucial to develop specific policies to limit heavy metal accumulation in hyperaccumulator plants like root and stem tubers, as they can further contribute to the contamination of crops. Overall, addressing heavy metal contamination in wheat crops requires a multi-faceted approach that combines remediation techniques, policy interventions and focused research to safeguard both agricultural productivity and human health.