The Specific Effect of Zinc and Other Heavy Metals on the Growth and Nutrition of Rhizopus

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Abstract
Zinc was found indispensable for the growth of R. nigricans, permitting a 3-fold increase in sugar utilization. Zn deficiency brought about incomplete oxidation of glucose and formation of much fumaric acid; Fe deficiency caused an opposite response. A relation was found to exist between glucose conc. and the influence of Fe and Zn. Maximum response to Zn required a 10% glucose medium. Below a C: N ration of 25:1 and above 300:1 no fumaric acid was found with Zn. In media containing up to 20% glucose, Fe and Zn behaved antagonistically; above this amt., associatively. Zn is considered to be closely associated with carbohydrate dissimilation.