Aluminium and nitrite induced alteration in potassium transport of wheat

In acid soils, aluminium (Al3+) toxicity is the primary stress factor for g rowth and ion transport of roots. Beside Al3+, nitrite (NO2-) may also be a significant stress factor in low pH environment. The objective of this stu dy was to examine the dual effects of Al3+ and NO2- on potassium (KC) trans port of common winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Jubilejnaja 50) and d urum wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. GK Betadur). In 24 h Al3+ treatments, the K+ influx increased with increasing AlCl3 concentrations in roots and s hoots of both species. At the same time, the Kf concentration of roots and shoots was not elevated by Al3+. In the cases of nitrite + aluminium treatm ent combinations, a strong inhibition were observed in K+ uptake along with K+ concentration of roots and shoots in both species. High concentrations ofAl(3+) and NO2- together with low pH conditions may play significant role in stress condition of cereal crops produced in acidic soils.