Ecological and physiological investigations on Eichhomia crassipes (MART.) SOLMS. I . The effect of different environmental conditions on the development of root colour

Abstract

The cell walls of E. crassipes roots show areas of strong coloration, which can range from light brown through brown, blue, violet to blue-black, while the plants appear generally healthy. This work describes the environmental factors which control the particularly noticeable blue colouration of the roots. From studies conducted under defined conditions in growth chambers, substrate nitrogen deficiency in the light produces an intense blue root colouration. Thus with nitrate or ammonium deficiency of the nutrient medium E. crassipes can be considered a nitrogen monitor.