Abstract :
Foliar surface of plant is continuously exposed to the surrounding atmosphere and is the
main receptor of dust. Dust affects the photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration and allows the
penetration of phytotoxic gaseous pollutants. The present exploration was undertaken to study the
seasonal variation in dust deposition on leaves and its impact on chlorophyll content of two common
tree species namely Azadirachta indica and Bauhinia variegata. This research was conducted during
March 2019 to February 2020 on both these plant species in the region of JP cement plant. Authors
found that cement dust had a significant effect on the photosynthetic pigments such as chlorophyll
'a', chlorophyll 'b' and total chlorophyll content. Maximum dust deposition occurred during winter
followed by summer and rainy season in both plant species. The authors reported a significant
negative correlation between dust load and chlorophyll content in all the three seasons. Azadirachta
indica showed more dust deposition rates in comparison to Bauhinia variegata. Thus, plants can be
used in the abatement of dust pollution as they act as natural filters.
Keyword :
Air pollution, Cement dust, Chlorophyll, Seasonal variation.