Qualitative Phytochemical Responses of Solanum melongena L. to Lead and Cobalt Stress at Different Growth Stages

The present study aimed to qualitatively assess phytochemical responses in methanolic 
extracts of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) subjected to lead (PbCl₂) and cobalt (CoCl₂) 
stress. Plants were exposed to control, 50, 150, and 300 ppm concentrations of PbCl₂ and 
CoCl₂ under pot culture conditions. Root, stem, and leaf samples were collected at 60 and 90 
days after sowing and analyzed using standard qualitative phytochemical screening tests. The 
presence or absence of major phytochemical groups was recorded to evaluate variations 
associated with metal stress, plant organ, and growth stage. The results revealed noticeable 
variations in phytochemical composition across treatments, with several compounds detected 
in control and lower metal concentrations, while higher concentrations resulted in the absence 
of certain phytochemicals. Leaves generally exhibited better phytochemical retention 
compared to roots and stems. Distinct differences between lead and cobalt treatments 
indicated metal-specific effects on phytochemical expression. This qualitative screening 
provides preliminary insight into biochemical adjustments of eggplant under heavy metal 
stress and establishes a basis for further quantitative investigations.