The present study aimed to investigate the impact of trace elements on the quantity of carotenoid pigment in Raphanus sativus cv pusa rashmi seedlings. The experiment involved immersing the seeds in different concentrations of copper sulphate, cadmium chloride, lead nitrate, nickel sulphate, and zinc chloride, ranging from 10 to 500 parts per million (ppm). Control condition was also used (treated with distilled water). The seeds were then propagated in petri dishes, and after 10 days, the carotenoid content was examined by applying spectrophotometric analysis. Analysis (statistical) of the results showed a significant difference between the control group and the treatments, while no significant differences were observed among the various chemicals or their concentrations. The findings demonstrated a decrease in carotenoid content as the concentration of heavy metals increased. Copper, cadmium, lead, nickel, and zinc exhibited a negative impact on the carotenoid content of Raphanus sativus cv Pusa rashmi. Among these metals, cadmium was found to be the most detrimental to carotenoid levels. These results align with previous studies highlighting the inhibitory effects of heavy metals on photosynthesis and plant growth. The presence of pollutants like copper, along with other toxic elements such as zinc, lead, arsenic, and nickel, in high concentrations disrupts soil fertility and can have detrimental effects on plant health and productivity.

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Keywords: Heavy Metals, Carotenoid Content, Raphanus Sativus, Cultivar Pusa Rashmi, Petridish Culture.