ARS | Publication request: Potential for Genetic Improvement of Thlaspi Caerulescens for Phytoremediation

Submitted to: Ecology Symposium
Publication Type: Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: December 30, 2002
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Thlaspi caerulescens has excellent potential to be used for remediation of zinc and cadmium polluted soils. Although plants of this species have been found to consistently hyperaccumulate cadmium and zinc, the levels of cadmium and zinc that individual plants accumulate depend on their genotype and environment. The concentrations of cadmium and zinc in leaves of T. caerulescens have been shown to differ significantly due to their ecotype, place of origin, and growing conditions. Thus, for successful phytoremediation, T. caerulescens plants should be adapted to the locations where they will be utilized and these locations are likely to differ in climate, soil type, and soil pollution level. This paper will outline suggested research and needed quantitative information that is essential for developing germplasm pools and breeding superior cultivars of T. caerulescens to be used for phytoremediation. The critical importance of studying genotype X environment interactions will be discussed in relation to effective breeding and utilization of T. caerulescens. Problems of evaluating gene expression for hyperaccumulation of zinc and cadmium will also be addressed.