Phytoremediation of Lead, Arsenic and Chromium Polluted Soil Using Opuntia spp. (Dilang-Baka)

Paolo Angelo Pitagan (Faculty, College of Allied Medical Sciences, Lyceum of the Philippines University – Cavite)
Klavejn Melendres (Alumni, College of Allied Medical Sciences, Lyceum of the Philippines University – Cavite)
Annie Abonita (Faculty, College of Allied Medical Sciences, Lyceum of the Philippines University)
Kimberly Joy Escaño-Alcaraz (Faculty, College of Allied Medical Sciences, Lyceum of the Philippines University)

BIODIVERS - BIOTROP Scientific Magazine
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2023): BIODIVERS (BIOTROP Science Magazine) - Biodiversity for All

Phytoremediation capabilities of Opuntia spp. were tested on heavy metal polluted soil collected in a metallurgical factory in Carmona Cavite. Initial soil testing shows traces of Arsenic: 8.48 mg/Kg, Chromium: 116 mg/Kg, and Lead: 79 mg/Kg. pH and moisture are neutral and dry. Opuntia was compared to A. vera, within two months. Final results show both can decrease concentrations of Arsenic and Lead but Chromium from Opuntia have increased concentration might be due to the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III).