The Dynamics of Molybdenum, Boron, and Iron Uptake, Translocation and Accumulation by Pea (Pisum sativum L.)

Abstract

Molybdenum (Mo), boron (B), and iron (Fe) play an important role in symbiotic nitrogen fixation by legume plants. The intensity of this process varies in different growth stages of legumes, and the changes are accompanied by changes in the content and translocation of these micronutrients in the plant. A two-year field experiment was conducted to investigate the dynamics of molybdenum, boron, and iron content, translocation, and accumulation in pea plants. Two pea cultivars were studied in six stages of growth, from the four-leaf stage to full maturity. The content of Mo, B, and Fe in the roots of pea was highest from the four-leaf stage to the full flowering stage, i.e., the period of establishment of symbiosis and the most intensive atmospheric nitrogen fixation. The bioaccumulation factors of Mo and Fe were generally highest in the initial stages of pea growth and decreased during generative development, while the reverse pattern was observed for boron. The bioaccumulation factors also indicate high bioaccumulation of Mo and B and low bioaccumulation of Fe in the biomass of pea. The translocation factor indicated a high potential for allocation of Mo from the roots to the aerial parts, increasing during growth; high and stable potential for allocation of boron; and very minor allocation of iron to the aerial parts. The values of all parameters tested were usually dependent on the conditions in which the experiment was conducted (the year), but not on the cultivar of a pea.