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Abstract
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Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most common heavy metal contaminants in the environment. Cd pollution adversely affects the plant growth and development. Datura stramonium L. plants, as an experimental model, were investigated for the soil Cd pollution effects on the perianth and anther formation development. The soil was contaminated by cadmium chloride in different rates (0 and 225 mg kg−1) and placed in the experimental pots (4 kg soil/pot). The tiny blossoms and buds, in different developmental stages, were removed, fixed in FAA70, stored in 70% ethanol, embedded in paraffin and sliced at 7 μm with a microtome. Different staining methods including haematoxylin–eosine and Alexander’s stain were used. The developmental stages of reproductive organs were examined by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that Cd can cause some abnormalities during the developmental process of pollens and ovule. Under Cd treatment, some changes were observed in a tapetum layer. In Cd-treated group, fragility, vacuolization and size of pollen grains were increased in comparison with control. A decrease in the bioavailability of pollen and degeneration of embryo sac cells were the results of Cd that Cd is capable of inducing chromosomal aberrations. Abnormalities in male organs were more than in female ones. This study showed the range of disturbances in floral structures and provides a good set of features to determine Cd-contaminated stress tolerance.
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