Root-exuded oxygen in the aquatic angiosperm Ruppia maritima

Authors

Glen B. Thursby, University of Rhode Island

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

1984

Department

Botany

Abstract

The potential impact of oxygen from roots on the source of inorganic nitrogen for Ruppia maritima L. (Potamogetonales) was investigated in laboratory experiments. Roots released oxygen at an average rate of 2 to 3 μg O₂ (mg dry wt)^-1h^-1. A distinctive oxygenated zone with a radius of 0.75 to 1.25 mm developed in the sediment around the roots. Although nitrate and nitrite could have been present in the oxygenated zone, these were unlikely to be significant sources of nitrogen for R. maritima. Root hairs extended up to 6 mm beyond this zone. In addition, roots of plants cultured in a flow-through system took up ammonia at a rate approximately 9 times greater than that for either nitrate or nitrite.

Citation/Publisher Attribution

Thursby, G. B. (1984). Root-exuded oxygen in the aquatic angiosperm Ruppia maritima. Marine Ecology - Progress Series, 16, 303-305. doi: 10.3354/meps016303

Available at: http://dx.doi.org/10.3354/meps016303