Publication
Title
Silica uptake in aquatic and wetland macrophytes: a strategic choice between silica, lignin and cellulose?
Author
Abstract
# Although silica (Si) is not an essential element for plant growth in the classical sense, evidence points towards its functionality for a better resistance against (a)biotic stress. Recently, it was shown that wetland vegetation has a considerable impact on silica biogeochemistry. However, detailed information on Si uptake in aquatic macrophytes is lacking. # We investigated the biogenic silica (BSi), cellulose and lignin content of 16 aquatic/wetland species along the Biebrza river (Poland) in June 2006 and 2007. The BSi data were correlated with cellulose and lignin concentrations. # Our results show that macrophytes contain significant amounts of BSi: between 2 and 28 mg BSi g−1. This is in the same order of magnitude as wetland species (especially grasses). Significant antagonistic correlations were found between lignin, cellulose and BSi content. Interestingly, observed patterns were opposite for wetland macrophytes and true aquatic macrophytes. # We conclude that macrophytes have an overlooked but potentially vast storage capacity for Si. Study of their role as temporal silica sinks along the landocean continuum is needed. This will further understanding of the role of ecosystems on land ocean transport of this essential nutrient.
Language
English
Source (journal)
New phytologist. - Oxford
Publication
Oxford : 2010
ISSN
0028-646X
DOI
10.1111/J.1469-8137.2009.03176.X
Volume/pages
186 :2 (2010) , p. 385-391
ISI
000276024900019
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 29.03.2010
Last edited 25.05.2022
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