Abstract
The presented investigations have been carried out in order to estimate toxic sulphide levels and to examine detoxification capabilities in roots and rhizomes of the common reed (Phragmites australis).
Underground organs of common reed are sensitive towards sulphide above 1 mM applied exogenously under hypoxia. However, certain tolerance may be achieved by sulphide detoxification. Accumulated sulphide is partially used for the synthesis of non-toxic thiols, mainly glutathione. But the detoxification capacity of the underground organs is limited. Maximum concentrations of thiols are about 60 nmol/g−1 fw in roots and 300 nmol/g−1 fw in rhizomes.
Energy metabolism is considerably affected by low sulphide concentrations of 1 mM for 4 days, and immediately disturbed by increased concentrations up to 6 mM sulphide. Adenylate energy charge, total adenylates, posthypoxic respiration, and fermentation capacity decrease significantly. Roots are more sensitive than rhizomes.
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Fürtig, K., Rüegsegger, A., Brunold, C. et al. Sulphide utilization and injuries in hypoxic roots and rhizomes of common reed (Phragmites australis). Folia Geobot 31, 143–151 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02804003
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02804003