From my hydroponic experiment, analysis result showed that Zn content in the shoot of Lepidium sativum was about five times more than Zn reserve in its seed (that was planted hydroponically without any Zn treatment). Please what could have accounted for the extra Zn content observed in the shoot? Is it a usual or an unusual scenario? Please I will also appreciate any article that treats this subject matter; striking a balance in Zn translocation from seed to shoot system, and its escalation in shoot without any Zn fertilization. Where has the extra Zn come from? Thank you.
Seeds are poor sink of micronutrients than shoots or other vegetative portion.
Zinc is a heavy metal that accumulates from the environment. The body only needs a miniscule amount for some enzymes.
Accumulation is not unusual and is commonly used in remediation of land.
Check if you have any rubber pipes in your hydroponic system, or rubber parts in your analytical equipment. Zn from greenhouse constructions and/or metal supply pipes are also significant suppliers.
Good point Dr Malhotra , i agree with you . Seeds are usually both poor sink as well as source of Zn.