ROLE OF PLANT SURFACE LIPIDS IN THE PROCESS OF PHYTOREMEDIATION

Abstract

Surface lipids (SL) of plants (epicuticular waxes) are complex mixture of highly hydrophobic substances which have most important functions of control of water status; anti- adhesive, self-cleaning properties; protection against radiation, pathogens and chemicals penetration. Also, as plant SL play pivotal physiological and ecological roles, it might be advantageous to adapt their composition and properties to environmental stresses, for example, for high concentrations of some exogeneous chemicals. Some water plants, representatives of Helophytes are used in remediation in constructed wetlands and are shown to have specific content of SL. Helophytes (synonyms – emergent water plants, marsh plants, etc.) are used for treatment of contaminated waters and are good absorbers of aromatics.