Effects of multi-wall carbon nanotubes on seed germination and seedling growth of Water lotus

This study aimed to investigate multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) toxicity in Water lotus which is commonly used in constructed wetlands. The seed germination, plantlet development, and physiology were evaluated by exposure experiments. The results of the seed germination experiment showed that different concentrations of MWCNTs (0, 5, 50, 100, 200 mg/L) had a certain inhibitory effect on the germination of Water lotus seeds, but the inhibitory effect was the smallest at the concentration of 100 mg/L. The results of the seedling growth experiment showed that the stem length and fresh weight of Water lotus chinensis seedlings treated with different concentrations of MWCNTs decreased in varying degrees compared with the control group, but the root elongation increased in varying degrees compared with the control group. It proved that MWCNTs could inhibit the growth of stems and leaves of Water lotus chinensis seedlings, but could promote the growth and development of roots.