Mineral nutrition is the process by which plants and animals obtain essential minerals from their environment to support growth, development, and overall health. Minerals are inorganic nutrients that serve various functions in the body, such as building strong bones and teeth, regulating fluid balance, and assisting in enzyme function.
Plants obtain minerals through their roots from the soil, where they are absorbed as ions and transported throughout the plant via the xylem and phloem. Animals obtain minerals through their diet, as minerals are present in various foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and meats.
There are two types of minerals: macrominerals, which are required in larger amounts by the body, and microminerals (or trace minerals), which are required in smaller amounts. Some common macrominerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and potassium, while common microminerals include iron, zinc, copper, selenium, and iodine.
Imbalances in mineral nutrition can lead to various health issues in both plants and animals. For example, a deficiency in calcium can lead to weak bones in animals, while a deficiency in iron can result in anemia. On the other hand, an excess of certain minerals can also be harmful, such as too much sodium leading to high blood pressure in humans.
Overall, maintaining a balanced mineral nutrition is essential for the proper growth, development, and functioning of plants and animals.
Mineral nutrition
1 answer