Selenium antagonises the toxic effects of arsenic on mungbean ( Phaseolus aureus Roxb.) plants by restricting its uptake and enhancing the antioxidative and detoxification mechanisms

► Se alleviates the toxic effects of arsenic by reducing its uptake. ► Se treated plants had elevated levels of metal detoxification mechanisms. ► Se application has the potential to mitigate As toxicity in crops. The presence of arsenic (As) in the metal-contaminated soils is toxic for the crops causing their impaired growth and development. Selenium (Se) is also likely to be present along with As in the polluted soils. Se at lower concentration (