Effects of cadmium on mineral nutrient concentrations in plants differing in tolerance for cadmium

The effects of 3 d treatments with 0.3 and 1.0 mg . L(-1) of cadmium (Cd) on selected mineral nutrient composition in plants differing in tolerance for Cd were studied. The concentrations of potassium (K) decreased in Cd-sensitive kidney bean and pea and that of manganese (Mn) decreased in the semiresistant rice and maize plants with increasing application of Cd in the culture solution. Copper (Cu) content increased in the roots of the plants above, but no changes in Cu contents were observed in the d resistant cucumber and pumpkin plants. Calcium(Ca), magnesium (Mg), and zinc (Zn) did not show any clear tendency with Cd applications in any of the plants examined. Water absorption by kidney bean was reduced by Cd, but that of rice and cucumber was not. Permeability of the plasma membrane of root cells may be affected by Cd, whereas absorption of some of the elements and water may be prevented.