Study of cesium- and strontium-tolerant wild grass-species and explore the role of gene for the tolerance

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 21K12287
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 64020:Environmental load reduction and remediation-related
• Research Institution: Fukushima University
• Principal Investigator: Rahman Ismail 福島大学, 環境放射能研究所, 教授 (60773067)
• Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha): 兼子 伸吾 福島大学, 共生システム理工学類, 准教授 (30635983)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: Wild grass / Ecology / Radiocesium / Radiostrontium / Tolerance / Growth traits / Response mechanism / Land reclamation

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The present study investigates the tolerance mechanisms of the wild grass species Holcus lanatus L. to elevated radiocesium (r-Cs) and radiostrontium (r-Sr) concentrations in soils resulting from anthropogenic activities, such as nuclear accidents or waste disposal. We comprehensively analyzed the relationship between soil nutrient elements (e.g., potassium and calcium) and other soil minerals like iron with the uptake and accumulation of r-Cs and r-Sr in plant tissues. Furthermore, we assessed the impact of varying concentrations of these radionuclides on the growth patterns and overall physiological responses of H. lanatus, including biomass production and root development. Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for developing effective phytoremediation strategies and assessing the potential risks of radionuclide transfer through the food chain in contaminated environments.

Free Research Field

Environmental load reduction and remediation

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

This research aims to identify wild grasses growing in radionuclide-contaminated soils that exhibit low or no uptake. Such grasses could serve as safe animal fodder and a source of genes for developing crops capable of growing in contaminated soils, thus ensuring safe agricultural production.