Mineral nutrient
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The Role of Mineral Nutrients in Human Health and Plant Nutrition
Introduction to Mineral Nutrients
Mineral nutrients are essential inorganic compounds, primarily metals, that play a crucial role in both human health and plant nutrition. These nutrients originate from the soil and are absorbed by plants, which then transfer them to animals and humans through the food chain. They are vital for various bodily functions, including the formation of bones and teeth, and act as co-factors for numerous enzymes necessary for digestion and absorption.
Classification and Requirements of Mineral Nutrients
Mineral nutrients are classified into three categories based on their required amounts: major, secondary, and micro or trace minerals. Major minerals such as potassium (K) and phosphorus (P) are needed in larger quantities, up to 10 grams per day. Secondary minerals and micro minerals are required in smaller amounts, ranging from 400 to 1,500 milligrams per day and 45 micrograms to 11 milligrams per day, respectively.
Sources of Mineral Nutrients
Plant-Based Sources
Plants are a primary source of almost all essential mineral nutrients for human nutrition. Edible wild plants, for instance, contain high levels of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Specific species like Amaranthus viridis and Verbena officinalis are particularly rich in these nutrients. The mineral content in plants can be influenced by various factors, including soil composition and agricultural practices.
Animal-Based Sources
Animal products also contribute significantly to human mineral intake. These products often contain minerals absorbed from plant-based foods consumed by the animals. Therefore, a balanced diet that includes a variety of plant and animal products is essential to prevent mineral deficiencies.
Impact of Agricultural Practices on Mineral Content
Agricultural practices, including the type of fertilization used, can significantly affect the mineral content of crops. Organic and inorganic fertilization methods have different impacts on the levels of minerals in plants. Environmental stresses such as salinity, drought, and extreme temperatures also influence mineral absorption and accumulation in plants.
Physiological Functions of Mineral Macronutrients in Plants
Plants require macronutrients like calcium, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur in relatively large amounts. These nutrients are absorbed in ionic forms and are essential for completing the plant life cycle. Recent research has identified various transport and regulatory mechanisms that facilitate the uptake and distribution of these macronutrients within plants.
Role of Melatonin in Plant Mineral Nutrition
Melatonin, a pleiotropic molecule, plays a significant role in regulating plant mineral nutrition. It helps plants adapt to nutrient imbalances by enhancing nutrient uptake and use efficiency. Melatonin levels in plants generally increase in response to nutrient deficiencies or excesses, aiding in the optimization of mineral nutrient acquisition and ion homeostasis.
Distribution of Mineral Nutrients in Plants
In graminaceous plants, the distribution of mineral nutrients occurs in nodes, which have a complex vascular system. Various transporters mediate the transfer of minerals between different vascular bundles, ensuring that developing tissues with high nutrient requirements receive adequate supplies. This distribution mechanism is crucial for plant growth and development.
Conclusion
Mineral nutrients are indispensable for both human health and plant nutrition. They are required in precise amounts and are obtained primarily from plant and animal sources. Agricultural practices and environmental factors significantly influence the mineral content in plants. Understanding the physiological functions and distribution mechanisms of these nutrients in plants can help optimize their use in agriculture, ensuring better crop yields and improved human nutrition.
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