Anthropogenic dust pollution influences leaf and root morpho-anatomical traits by altering the metabolism and biochemical properties of indigenous vegetation.

The current investigation analyzed the impact of dust pollution from the stone crushing industry in the Kirana Hills of Sargodha on plant communities, with a focus on seasonal variations in plant metabolism, structure, and heavy metal accumulation at different study sites. The results revealed that heavy metal concentrations were notably higher at extreme dust sites, particularly during the winter season, indicating a significant impact of dust pollution on the environment. Soil analysis revealed distinct compositions across different sites and seasons, highlighting the variability in environmental conditions. The morpho-anatomical and metabolic traits of plants are significantly affected at extreme dust sites, especially during winter, with increased sclerification in leaves, and roots, and the presence of large aerenchyma cells in roots, facilitating survival in harsh and polluted environments. Biochemical parameters indicated elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increased antioxidant activity, including enzymatic, non-enzymatic, and osmoprotective mechanisms, at extreme dust sites, particularly during winter. Furthermore, heavy metal accumulation in plants increased at polluted sites, suggesting phytoaccumulation. These findings provide valuable insights into the adaptive mechanisms of plants in dust-polluted environments. Future research should investigate the potential applications of these adaptations in phytoremediation strategies to mitigate the impacts of dust pollution.