5. Conclusion
There are several indigenous tree species considered a priority in reforestation programs and the sensitivity of many of them to toxic contaminants has seldom been studied.
In this study, inoculation with S.bovinus enhanced plant development at the Cd concentrations tested.
On the other hand, R.roseolus significantly reduced total metal uptake by the plant at the highest Cd dosage but showed no growth enhancement capabilities at an early stage.
Such differential response induced by the two tested species highlights the importance of selecting the appropriate strains for nursery inoculation.
Further, it points out to their potential to be used as a means to efficiently improve reforestation processes of degraded land using P. pinaster.