The effects of coal-smoke pollutants on the growth, yield and leaf epidermal features of Abelmoschus esculentus moench

In Abelmoschus esculentus var. Pusa Sawani, coal-smoke pollutants, experienced close to a thermal power plant, led to decreases of plant height and stem diameter, jeopardised the production of leaves and flower buds and stimulated leaf and flower fall, leading to a decrease in the number of fruits set per plant. The length of fruits was affected a little, and the circumference and fresh weight suffered significantly, causing a decrease in plant yield. The net productivity of stems, roots and leaves incurred losses of 22.5%, 24.0% and 37.5%, respectively, and resulted in a 28.3% loss in the total net productivity of polluted plants. A decrease in stomatal density, aperture and index, and a lower density of epidermal cells of greater dimensions were observed on both the leaf surfaces. Abnormalities of the stomatal complexes were also observed on the upper surface of polluted leaves.