Abstract
Several metals modulate and monitor growth in addition to physiological as well as biochemical processes in plants. Out of these, some of the heavy metals are substantial environmental pollutants and produce toxic effects which create ecological havoc. When present in iota amounts, metals such as copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr) and zinc (Zn) are essential to plant metabolism and play a significant role in plant growth and productivity. However, if their level increased, it leads to toxicity and often has adverse effects on plant life. In this chapter, the impact of Co in plant life is reviewed along with stress caused by this metal and ways to overcome its detrimental effects. Cobalt, a critical cobalamin component, is needed for several enzyme and coenzyme operations. Its role in accelerating the nitrogen fixation in legumes is now well established. Other positive impacts include stem development, coleoptile elongation, bud formation, plant growth enhancement and yield when exogenously applied. Some studies show that Co plays a significant role in ethylene production in plants. Besides beneficial impacts on plant life, cobalt has some unfavourable effects too. At higher levels, Co is known to decrease the formation of nodules, resulting in reduced development and crop yield. Higher levels of Co also lead to chlorosis and necrosis and inhibition of root formation, hindering the nutrient translocation and water uptake. Although there are reports that confirmed, the toxicity of Co could be alleviated by exogenous supply of calcium, phosphorus and some plant growth regulators.
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Akeel, A., Jahan, A. (2020). Role of Cobalt in Plants: Its Stress and Alleviation. In: Naeem, M., Ansari, A., Gill, S. (eds) Contaminants in Agriculture. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-41552-5_17
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