Leaf structural traits of two Restinga plant species with different resistance pattern to iron toxicity

Iron mining activities are a source of particulate iron, which contaminates soil and plants Restinga biome (Brazil). To investigate the possible effects iron toxicity to Ipomoea pes-caprae Canavalia rosea leaves, were submitted different exposure times (12, 36, 108 228 hours) concentrations (0.5 or 150 mg L-1, Fe2+ as FeSO4.7H2O). After hours C. leaves chlorotic while I. presented venal chlorosis bronzing after hours, both from excess treatment. The anatomical alterations in more intense appeared earlier than rosea, 36 exposed excess. leaf epidermal cells organization, size shape for species epicuticular wax was altered rupture occurred close stomata. positive staining presence tissues matches with damaged areas indicating direct toxicity. most severe symptoms resistant one. results support that over time, emission matter may negatively impact ecological succession biodiversity Restinga.