Phosphorus and cadmium interactions in Kandelia obovata (S. L.) in relation to cadmium tolerance

This study focused on the cadmium (Cd) tolerance of mangroves with application of phosphate (P) in order to explore whether exogenous P can alleviate Cd stress on these intertidal species. Kandelia obovata (S. L.) seedlings were cultivated in rhizoboxes under different levels of Cd and P concentrations. The speciation distributions of Cd in the rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere sediments were examined by sequential extraction procedures; organic acid in plant tissues and soil solution was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography; Cd and P accumulation in the plants was also determined. Results showed that considerable differences existed in Cd speciation distributions between rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere sediments. Root activity influenced the dynamics of Cd, P application increased the organic acid content in root tissues, P also increased Cd accumulation in roots whilst lowering Cd translocation from root to the above-ground tissues, and a significant positive correlation was found between Cd and P in roots (r = 0.905). It is postulated that Cd detoxification of K. obovata (S. L.) is associated with higher Cd immobilization in the presence of higher P and organic acid contents in root tissue.