Effects of Microorganisms on Absorption and Distribution of Phosphate in Barley

Abstract

Although it is well established that microorganisms can influence the absorption and translocation of phosphate by plants growing in solution culture, different investigations have recorded both stimulations and depressions. However, the experimental conditions differed in regard to the age, nutrition and species of plants, the origin of the microflora, the concentrations of phosphate supplied and the time over which absorption was measured. The effect of these variables on the nature of response to microorganisms was investigated. Microorganisms enhanced absorption and translocation in young seedlings during short periods of uptake while causing decreases over longer periods and in older plants. The possible mechanisms responsible for the effects of microorganisms are discussed.