Effects of combinations of heavy metal pollutants on Cuscuta reflexa

The effects of combinations of Hg, As, Pb, Cu, Cd, and Cr on the variables of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. in natural condition were studied. All of the combinations of heavy metals tested decreased Hill reaction activity, chlorophyll and protein contents and increased tissue permeability over control values. The effects were best visible with the treatments of (As + Cd + Pb + Hg + Cu + Cr) and (As + Cd + Pb + Hg + Cu), followed by (As + Cd + Pb + Hg), (As + Cd + Pb), and (As + Cd). The degree of inhibition or increase by combinations of heavy metals is much higher due to synergism as the observed effects exceed the summed amount. The general order of sensitivity was As > Cd > Pb > Hg > Cu > Cr (absolute metal concentration).