Copper induced physiological changes and oxidative damage in lichen Ramalina farinacea

Abstract

Copper is an essential element for all organisms but can reach toxic concentrations as a result of human activities. The aim of the present study was to investigate physiological effects of copper on the lichen Ramalina farinacea (L.) Ach. The effect of copper on the chlorophyll content, fluorescence and oxidative status was assessed. The chlorophyll a content was not significantly different from the control. The chlorophyll b content was significantly higher at any tested Cu²⁺ concentration in comparison with the control. F_v/F_m values decreased significantly in R. farinacea following 50 mg Cu and higher concentrations. MDA increased significantly after exposure to 100 and 500 mg Cu concentrations.