Accumulation of three different sizes of particulate matter on plant leaf surfaces: Effect on leaf traits

Abstract

Plants not only improve air quality by adsorbing particulate matter (PM) on leaf surfaces but can also be affected by their accumulation. In this study, a field investigation was performed in Wuhan, China, into the relationship between seven leaf traits and the accumulation of three different sizes of PM (PM11, PM2.5 and PM0.2) on leaves. The retention abilities of plant leaves with respect to the three sizes of PM differed significantly at different sites and species. The average PM retention capabilities of plant leaves and specific leaf area (SLA) were significantly greater in a seriously polluted area, whereas the average values of chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), total chlorophyll, carotenoid, pH and relative water content (RWC) were greater at the control site. SLA significantly positively correlated with the size of PM, but Chl a, Chl b, total chlorophyll, RWC significantly negatively correlated with the size of PM, whereas the pH did not correlate significantly with the the PM fractions. Additionally, SLA was found to be affected by large particles (PM11, p<0.01); PM2.5 had a more obvious effect on plant leaf traits than the other PM (p<0.05). Overall, the findings from this study provide useful information regarding the selection of plants to reduce atmospheric pollution.