Vol. 72 No: 1

Title:
Effects of Rain Acidity on Oxalate Content of Leaves of Actinidia

Author:
C. RINALLO

pp: 101-108

Abstract:
The content of oxalate crystals in Actinidia leaves was investigated in plants subjected to simulated acid rain at various levels of acidity. Microscopic observation showed that the acid treatment increased the number of idioblasts and altered their distribution in leaf tissues. Chemical analysis revealed an increase in oxalic acid. Microanalysis showed that inclusions on petiole and midveins are oxalates of calcium and potassium, while the inclusions in secondary veins and mesophyll are oxalates with calcium, potassium and other ions. It is speculated that acidity alters cell metabolism for nitrate and sulphate reduction, or increases influx of the calcium in the cell and tissues, conditions which promote the formation of oxalate.

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