Effect of nickel chloride on seed germination and morphophysiological parameters of seedlings of <Emphasis Type="Italic">Alisma plantago-aquatica</Emphasis> L. and <Emphasis Type="Italic">Sium latifolium</Emphasis> L.

The effect of nickel chloride concentrations in the range of 1–1000 mg/L on seed germination and the development of organs and pigment system in seedlings of the helophyte common water-plantain Alisma plantago-aquatica L. and hygrohelophyte greater water-parsnip Sium latifolium L. has been studied. It is shown that nickel chloride has practically no effect on the germination of the common water-plantain; however, it suppresses the germination of the greater water-parsnip. It is demonstrated that the toxicant suppresses the growth of seedlings and synthesis of photosynthetic pigments. The length of cotyledons and hypocotyl is less variable, with a much stronger effect on roots and leaves. It is determined that the morphometric parameters are less sensitive to the toxicant when compared to physiological ones. In general, the common water-plantain is more resistant to the effect of nickel chloride than the greater water-parsnip.