Objective: To study the effects of heavy metals on germination and antioxidant systems of the seeds of Astragalus membranaceus.
Method: The seeds were treated with three different heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Cd) and the germination rate, germination energy, germination index, seedling root length, seedling fresh weight, soluble protein, antioxidant enzyme systems, electrical conductivity were detected and analyzed.
Result: The results indicated that all of the three kinds of heavy metals had a significant effect on the seed germination index at different levels of concentrations except germinating ability. Different kinds of heavy metals could also enhance the vitality of POD and CAT, increase the electrical conductivity and the concentration of soluble protein.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that heavy metals have a significant effect on the growth and antioxidant system of the seed.