Functions and deficiency of Magnesium

Functions and deficiency of Magnesium

1. Essential Elements: Forms, Occurance , Functions and Deficiency Symptoms Krishna Aryal Asst. Professor (Soil Science) [email protected] 1

2. 2 Forms and occurrence It is absorbed in the form of the Mg 2+ ion . Its conc. in plant varies from 0.1 - 0.4%. Mg content of soil Mg as MgO is <1% in non-calcareous soils . Dolomite Mg substitute Ca in substantial quantities in certain soil. It exists as Mg 2+ in soil solution . Minerals are: biotite, Augite, Montmorilonite , Hornblende, Dolomite etc. Magnesium

3. 3 Functions of m agnesium in plants C onstituent of chlorophyll located at its centre. Serves as a structural component of ribosomes. Mg activates the formation of polypeptide chains to form amino acids. R equired for phosphate transfer from ATP (Phosphorylation) in carbohydrate metabolism. Activator plant enzymes which are involved in energy transfer, glycolysis, respiration, & sulfate reduction.

4. 4 It promotes uptake and translocation of phosphorus and movement of sugars within the plants. Balances high use of K + Neutralizes organic acids Deficiency symptoms of magnesium Mobile element; readily translocated from older leaves to younger plant part when supply is limited . Interveinal chlorosis In wheat, distinct mottling as yellowish green patches

5. 5 I n alfa-alfa; leaves curl & have reddish undersides . Leaves of sugarbeets & potatoes become stiff can brittle, veins are twisted. Lower leaves of cotton may develop reddish purple color , which gradually turns brown and finally necrosis occurs.

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