European Journal of Biotechnology and Bioscience

Authors
Eguagie MO

Abstract
This investigation was undertaken to observe the effects of simulated acid rain (SAR) on the growth, mineral nutrient accumulationrnand yield of Solanum lycopersicum. The plants were exposed to different levels of simulated acid rain acidified at pH 5.6 (control),rn5.0, 4.0, 3.0 and 2.0. The experimental results indicated that under the stress of simulated acid rain, growth parameters measuredrnsuch as leaf number, shoot height, fresh and dry weight and stem girth were significantly reduced in plant subjected to SAR whenrncompared with the control treatment. There was a gradual decline in chlorophyll content index as the level of acidity increased.rnChlorophyll content index was highest (11.57) at pH 5.6 and least (5.65) at pH 2.0. SAR induced morphological changes such asrnchlorosis and necrosis in Solanum lycopersicum. Phytochemical analysis of the plant showed that mineral nutrient such as Mg, Ca,rnFe, K, P and N were leached at low pH. It was concluded that growth, yield and mineral nutrient retention were adversely affectedrnwhen S. lycopersicum was exposed to simulated acid rain.