Germination and Growth Morphological Response of Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus L.) to Mercury (Hg) Toxicity

Mercury (Hg) contamination in agricultural soils poses a serious threat to plant development. This study evaluated the impact of Hg toxicity on the germination and growth morphology of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) at concentrations of 100, 200, and 400 ppm. Results indicated a dose-dependent reduction in germination percentage, decreasing from 80.5% at 100 ppm to 59.1% at 400 ppm, compared to 92.5% in the control. Growth morphological traits, including leaf area, shoot length, and root length, declined progressively with increasing Hg concentrations, with reductions of 33%, 36%, and 45%, respectively, at 400 ppm. Biomass accumulation was significantly affected, as fresh and dry weights decreased by 21% and 35%, respectively. Furthermore, membrane rupture increased from 19.5% at 100 ppm to 40.9% at 400 ppm, indicating severe oxidative stress and cellular damage. These findings highlight the detrimental effects of Hg on seedling establishment and early growth, emphasizing the need for soil decontamination strategies in Hg-polluted environments.