Ecotoxicological effects of heavy metal stres on cell division and antioxidant enzyme levels of wheat varieties

In this study, ecotoxicology effects of zinc, lead, cadmium on cell division and antioxidant enzyme of wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Altay, Triticum aestivum L. cv. Sönmez ve Triticum aestivum L. cv. Sultan) were investigated. Different concentrations (100, 200 and 300 µM) of heavy metals (zinc, cadmium, lead) caused to changes the germination, lenght of hypocotyl and radicle, dry weight and water content, chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b, carotenoid, mitotic index and catalase enzyme levels among wheat genotypes. However superoxid dismutase (SOD) levels was not altered depending on different concentration of heavy metals. Heavy metals applications caused decreases of measured parameters in each wheat genotypes. In conclusion heavy metals affects physiological and biochemical mechanisms of wheat genotypes and Triticum aestivum L. cv. Sönmez has more tolerated to heavy metals.