Phytoremediation is showing promise as a sustainable, cost-effective way to decontaminate soil and water. In the case of a hyperaccumulater such as Thlaspi caerulescens, however, what might be a drawback of the technology?

• A. The toxic metals will stunt the plant's growth.
• B. The toxic metals will affect the other organisms in the soil.
• C. Herbivores that eat the plant may be poisoned.
• D. If herbivores eat the plants, carnivores that feed on the herbivores may be poisoned.
• E. The third and fourth responses are correct.

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of phytoremediation: Phytoremediation is a process where plants are used to remove, transfer, stabilize, or destroy contaminants in soil and water. Hyperaccumulators are plants that can absorb high concentrations of toxic metals from the soil.
2. Identify the role of Thlaspi caerulescens: Thlaspi caerulescens is a known hyperaccumulator, meaning it can absorb and concentrate toxic metals from the soil into its tissues.
3. Consider the ecological impact: When hyperaccumulators absorb toxic metals, these metals are stored in the plant tissues. This can pose a risk to herbivores that consume these plants, as they may ingest harmful levels of metals.
4. Evaluate the food chain effect: If herbivores are poisoned by consuming hyperaccumulators, carnivores that feed on these herbivores may also be at risk of poisoning, leading to potential disruptions in the food chain.
5. Conclude the drawbacks: The primary drawbacks of using hyperaccumulators like Thlaspi caerulescens in phytoremediation are the risks of poisoning to herbivores and subsequent poisoning of carnivores, which can affect the entire ecosystem.