Effects of Zeolite and Poultry Manure in PTE Accumulation in Crithmum maritimum Grown in Contaminated Soil

Soil contamination by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) is a crucial abiotic stress factor, which negatively affects crop growth and yield. Sea fennel (Crithmum maritimum) has demonstrated notable tolerance to adverse conditions, making it a potential tolerant candidate for cultivation in contaminated soils. The present study investigated the impact of zeolite and poultry manure (PM) application on plant growth and bioaccumulation of PTEs (Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn) in a highly contaminated soil. Although the amendments did not lead to significant variations in biomass, the plant thrived in contaminated soil, suggesting high resistance to abiotic stress. Poultry manure reduced Pb availability in soil by 28% but did not inhibit hazardous accumulation in plant tissues. In contrast, zeolite application resulted in elevated Cd concentrations (up to 2.05 mg kg⁻¹) in aboveground biomass. Meanwhile, the addition of PM increased Cu concentrations in plant tissues (up to 3.88 mg kg⁻¹). However, Cd and Pb concentrations exceeded in the aerial biomass the European limits for consumption, posing health risks regarding its use as edible from contaminated soils. The findings highlight the complex effect of soil amendments on PTE mobility and phytoavailability and suggest the potential of C. maritimum as a resistant crop in highly polluted soils.