Uptake of Strontium by Roots of Zea Mays

Abstract
The absorption characteristics of vacuolated and non-vacuolated sections of the primary root of Zea mays with respect to the uptake of Sr were determined. Like Na, Ca and Cl, uptake of Sr is a non-metabolic process in the meristematic portion of the root tip, but dependent upon metabolism in the vacuolated tissue. The data presented suggest the existence of a barrier probably lying close to the cell surface which normally limits the non-metabolic uptake of Sr. This barrier is apparently metabolically maintained and is readily destroyed by anaerobiosis, permitting larger amounts of Sr to enter the tissue. SrCL2 was found to stimulate the respiration of both vacuolated and non-vacuolated tissue.