Distribution of Copper and Other Elements in Ryegrass Roots, Determined With a Scanning Proton Microprobe

Abstract

A scanning proton microprobe has been used to determine the distribution of Cu and other elements in Wimmera ryegrass roots grown in solution cultures. Cu was found to be localized on or near the surface of the roots, in randomly distributed discrete zones. The distribution of Cu was partially correlated with those of Fe, P and Ca and possibly indicates some form of association; coprecipitation in a precipitate of Fe(III) phosphate or hydroxyoxide is favoured.