Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) accumulation by terrestrial higher plants is an intriguing phenomenon that may be exploited for phytoextraction of Cd-contaminated soils. Characterizing the physiological processes responsible for elevated concentrations of Cd in shoots is a first step towards a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying Cd accumulation in plants and may eventually improve the efficiency of phytoextraction. Woody species that can accumulate Cd have been recently recommended as good candidates for phytoextraction of Cd-contaminated soils. However, little is known about the mechanisms of Cd accumulation by woody species. In an attempt to understand the physiological processes contributing to Cd accumulation in woody species, Cd uptake and translocation by a novel tropical Cd-accumulating tree, star fruit ( Averrhoa carambola) were characterized and compared with those of a non-Cd-accumulating tree ( Clausena lansium). Our results showed that A. carambola had higher Cd uptake and root-to-shoot translocation efficiencies than C. lansium, which might account for its greater Cd-accumulating capacity. Furthermore, Cd accumulation by A. carambola was not significantly affected by zinc (Zn), whereas Zn accumulation was greatly lowered by Cd. This phenomenon could not be fully explained by a simple competition between Cd 2+ and Zn 2+, implying the existence of a transport system with a preference for Cd over Zn. Collectively, our results indicate that A. carambola has noteworthy physiological traits associated with accumulation of Cd to high levels.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.