Interaction of Cadmium and Four Microelements for Uptake and Translocation in Different Barley Genotypes

Abstract

A hydroponic experiment was conducted in a greenhouse to study the interaction of cadmium (Cd) and four microelements [zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn)] for uptake, accumulation and distribution in barley during ontogenesis and their difference among genotypes. Cadmium addition to the medium not only significantly decreased Zn concentrations in all plant tissues, but also inhibited its translocation from roots to shoots, leading to higher root/shoot Zn ratio in Cd-treated plants. Cadmium addition also reduced Mn and Cu concentrations in kernels, roots and shoots and of Fe concentration in kernels and shoots. Significantly negative correlation was discovered between Zn, Cu, or Mn concentration and Cd concentration in different plant organs, suggesting the possibility of alleviating Cd accumulation in barley plants through application of these microelements on the Cd-contaminated soils. There was the significant difference among barley genotypes in uptake and translocation of Cd and four microelements.

Keywords:

• Barley (Hordeum vulgareL)
• Cadmium
• Microelement
• Uptake
• Interaction

Acknowledgments

We are deeply indebted to The British Council for its support to this project (SHA/992/310).