Zinc: A Critical Micronutrient for Growth and Development of Plants
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Abstract
Zinc is indeed a critical micronutrient found in very low amounts in the soil, which may limit the growth and reproduction of crops. The absorption of Zn by plants is directly influenced by several factors such as high pH, amount of organic matter, high humidity associated with low temperatures, and soil microorganisms. Zinc is an integral component of enzyme structures and it is also a regulatory cofactor for many enzymes that are required for the synthesis of chlorophyll, proteins, and carbohydrates. Zinc is important for enzymatic activity, being a constituent part of the enzyme’s alcohol dehydrogenase, carbonic anhydrase, Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase enzyme, and polymer RNA, in addition to participating in the synthesis of precursor tryptophan in the metabolism of indoleacetic acid, which is a plant hormone directly related to the development of plants. The functioning of these enzymes is affected significantly due to Zn deficiency and there will be a retarded growth and low productivity of crops because these enzymes are crucial for the growth and overall health of the plant. Zinc deficiency in plants is characterized by shortened internodes, reduced leaf area and size, the formation of rosettes, chlorosis, and necrosis. Almost half of the world’s cereal crops are deficient in Zn, leading to poor crop yield. One-third of the world's population is at risk of Zn deficiency. Zn deficiency in agricultural soils is also a major global problem affecting both crop yield and quality. This review aims to outline the key aspects of zinc as a nutrient in the soil and its roles in plants.
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