Effects of Heavy Metal Profiles on Plant Diversity and Ecosystem Processes: An In-Depth Review
Abstract
Heavy metal pollution, from both natural and human sources, is a persistent environmental issue as these metals are non-biodegradable and accumulate in soil, water, and plants. They disrupt ecosystems and public health, particularly affecting agriculture by harming plants. This review analysed scientific literature on how heavy metals influence plant diversity. Findings show that heavy metal stress severely damages plants by impairing nutrient uptake, disrupting photosynthesis and respiration, causing ionic imbalance, and generating excess reactive oxygen species. This leads to reduced plant growth, reproduction, and survival, ultimately decreasing biodiversity, altering species composition, and impairing ecosystem functioning. In conclusion, heavy metal contamination threatens plant diversity and broader ecosystem services, highlighting the need for further research and mitigation strategies. In summary, heavy metal stress negatively influences plant physiology and molecular processes, causing declines in biodiversity and changes in ecosystem functioning. These effects propagate through food chains, undermining overall ecosystem services. This review provides a foundation for future research aimed at better understanding and mitigating the impacts of heavy metals on plant diversity