Ogbonna C.E¹, Ugbogu A.E^2,, Otuu F.C³, Mbaogu N. E¹, Johnson A.R¹

This study was conducted to investigate effects of quarry dust on physiological and biochemical properties of selected edible fruit trees in the vicinity of a rock quarry site at Ugwuele, Uturu. Five fruit trees growing in the quarry site were randomly selected for the study. Control samples were collected six kilometers away from the study area. Significant differences were found in ascorbic acid content and relative water content of plants at study area and control (p<0.05), with both parameters having lower values at the study area. No Significant difference (p<0.05) was established between plants at study site and control in pH. Analysis of foliar structure of the plants showed that plants from the quarry site had more damaged stomata pores and guard cells in comparison with control samples. In addition, distorted vernal arrangement was observed in plants at the quarry site. The study suggests that fruit trees within the quarry site showed signs of stress, including oxidative stress. In order to protect human health, plants growing in the vicinity of quarry sites should not be consumed, as they may have accumulated toxic contaminants. It is very important that plants tolerant to air pollution from quarry sites are identified and used in the bio-mitigation air pollution from such sources.

quarry site, fruit trees, oxidative stress, foliar structure, air pollution tolerance