The Effect of Engine Oil Petrol and Diesel on the Germination and Growth of Maize.
Student: Abba Thlama (Project, 2025)
Department of Biology
University of Maiduguri, Borno State
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study investigates the impact of used engine oil, petrol gas, and diesel contamination on the growth and germination of maize (Zea mays), a critical global staple crop. Soil contamination by these substances disrupts soil fertility and microbial activity, posing severe challenges to agricultural productivity and food security. Controlled experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of varying concentrations of these contaminants on maize growth, soil pH, and microbial balance. Results showed that diesel exhibited the highest toxicity, followed by engine oil and petrol. High contaminant concentrations significantly reduced germination rates, plant height, and leaf area, with visible physiological changes such as yellowing leaves and stunted growth. This study highlights the urgent need for proper disposal methods and environmental legislation to mitigate the adverse impacts of these pollutants on agriculture and ecosystem health.
Keywords
For the full publication, please contact the author directly at: thlamaabba12@gmail.com
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Institutions
- Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State 47
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State 95
- Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State 41
- Federal University, Birnin-Kebbi, Kebbi State 37
- Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State 6
- Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State 63
- Federal University, Gashua, Yobe State 3
- Federal University, Gusau, Zamfara State 14
- Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State 1
- Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State 6