Comparative Analysis of Air Pollution Tolerance Index and Dust Carrying Capacity in Calotropis procera, Polyalthia Longifolia, and Nerium oleander L. from Different Locations

Abstract

Air pollution from industrialization and vehicle emissions is a serious hazard. This study assesses three native Indian plant species' resilience to pollution and adaptability for various environments by evaluating their Dust Carrying Capacity (DCC) and Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI). Four biochemical parameters— pH, ascorbic acid levels, chlorophyll, and relative water content—were examined in order to determine APTI. By comparing leaf area to dust deposition capacity, DCC was ascertained. The investigation was carried out at Mewar University utilizing conventional techniques for chemical analysis. The results indicate that, in line with the lower pollution levels at Mewar, Calotropis procera had the highest APTI value (13.71) and the lowest in Chanderiya (4.15). Nerium oleander and Polyalthia longifolia both followed a similar pattern. Because of its wider, hairy leaves, Calotropis procera had the maximum capacity (4.8) for dust capture at Mewar Campus. Comparable DCC values (3.8) were noted in Chanderiya (3.9) and beyond the campus, suggesting that it is environment- adaptable. At the Mewar Campus, Polyalthia longifolia displayed the highest DCC (1.8), whereas Nerium oleander consistently displayed lower DCC (0.8) everywhere it was found, most likely as a result of its smaller leaves. The significance of plant species in urban design and environmental management in contaminated areas is highlighted by these findings.