Cadmium Contamination ofZea maysby Root Absorption

Abstract
Absorption of 109Cd and transport to leaves and stems was investigated in Z. mays under intensive and constant exposure early after germination and during flowering. Cd is readily taken up by the roots and .apprx. 20% is transported to parts above the ground, reaching also the reproductive organs. The separation of bound Cd suggests that there is less binding on cell walls from Cd taken up by the roots than that injected into the stems. Concentrations of K+ and Ca2+ do not indicate a toxic action of Cd on the plant under the conditions used.