Mineral nutrition refers to the process by which plants absorb essential mineral nutrients from the soil to support their growth and development. These essential minerals are required for various physiological processes within the plant, such as photosynthesis, respiration, and cell division.
Plants require both macronutrients (required in large quantities) and micronutrients (required in small quantities) for optimal growth. Macronutrients include elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, while micronutrients include elements such as iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, molybdenum, and chlorine.
Plants absorb these essential minerals through their roots from the soil solution, where these elements are present in the form of ions. The uptake of these minerals is facilitated by various transport proteins and channels present in the root cells. Once inside the plant, these minerals are transported to various tissues through the xylem and phloem for utilization in various metabolic processes.
The availability of mineral nutrients in the soil can vary depending on factors such as soil pH, nutrient interactions, and soil composition. Plant species have evolved different mechanisms to cope with nutrient deficiencies or toxicities by altering their root morphology, exudation of organic acids, and changing gene expression patterns.
Proper mineral nutrition is essential for ensuring healthy plant growth and increasing crop yield. Imbalances or deficiencies in essential minerals can result in stunted growth, nutrient deficiencies, and poor crop productivity. Therefore, proper soil management practices, such as fertilization and crop rotation, are important for maintaining optimal mineral nutrition in agricultural crops.
References:
1. Marschner, P. (2012). Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants. Academic Press.
2. Epstein, E. (1972). Mineral Nutrition of Plants: Principles and Perspectives. John Wiley & Sons.
3. Taiz, L., & Zeiger, E. (2015). Plant Physiology and Development. Sinauer Associates.
4. White, P. J., & Brown, P. H. (2010). Plant Nutrition for Sustainable Development and Global Health. Annals of Botany, 105(7), 1073-1080.
What is mineral nutrition in details with full references
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