Molybdenum supply increases ¹⁵N-nitrate uptake by maize

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Physiology
• Soil Science

Background:

• Nitrogen (N) is a key nutrient for maize (Zea mays L.) production.
• Molybdenum (Mo) is essential for nitrate reductase (NR), facilitating N assimilation.
• Understanding N and Mo interactions is vital for optimizing crop nutrition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of N and Mo omission or supply on maize N metabolism.
• To evaluate how combined nutrient treatments impact plant physiology and biomass.
• To determine the optimal application method for Mo in maize production.

Main Methods:

• Maize plants were grown in controlled nutrient solutions with varying N and Mo levels.
• Nutrient omission treatments were supplemented via foliar application or nutrient solution.
• Gas exchange, chlorophyll and anthocyanin indexes, N accumulation, and amino acid profiles were measured.

Main Results:

• Combined N and Mo omission reduced maize biomass by 31% compared to full supply.
• Molybdenum significantly enhanced nitrate uptake and accumulation in maize.
• Nutrient solution application of Mo yielded higher biomass than foliar application.

Conclusions:

• Molybdenum plays a critical role in nitrate assimilation and N utilization in maize.
• Optimal Mo supply, particularly through the nutrient solution, boosts maize biomass production.
• Integrated N and Mo management is essential for sustainable maize cultivation.