EFFECTS OF RAIN ACIDITY ON OXALATE CONTENT OF LEAVES OF ACTINIDIA

The content of oxalate crystals in Actinidia leaves was investigated i n plants subjected to simulated acid rain at various levels of acidity . Microscopic observation showed that the acid treatment increased the number of idioblasts and altered their distribution in leaf tissues. Chemical analysis revealed an increase in oxalic acid. Microanalysis s howed that inclusions on petiole and midveins are oxalates of calcium and potassium, while the inclusions in secondary veins and mesophyll a re oxalates with calcium, potassium and other ions. It is speculated t hat acidity alters cell metabolism for nitrate and sulphate reduction, or increases influx of the calcium in the cell and tissues, condition s which promote the formation of oxalate.