Hyperaccumulator facts for kids
A hyperaccumulator is a special kind of plant. These plants can grow in soil that has very high amounts of metals. Most plants would get sick or die in such soil. But hyperaccumulators can handle it!
For example, on the island of New Caledonia, there's a tree called Pycnandra acuminata. It grows in soil that has a lot of nickel. Many different types of plants from various plant families can do this amazing trick.
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What are Hyperaccumulator Plants?
Hyperaccumulator plants are like nature's metal sponges. They absorb metals from the soil through their roots. Then, they store these metals in their leaves or other parts. They can store metals at levels 100 to 1,000 times higher than other plants.
Why Do Plants Collect Metals?
One big reason plants might collect metals is for protection. When a plant has high levels of heavy metals in its leaves, it can become toxic. This can stop herbivores (animals that eat plants) from munching on them. It's like a natural defense system!
How Do Plants Store Metals?
Plants use special tools inside their bodies to collect and store metals. These tools are often controlled by certain genes. Think of genes as instructions for building and operating the plant.
Special Genes for Metal Storage
Several groups of genes help plants become hyperaccumulators. One important group is called the ZIP gene family. These genes create special "doors" or "pumps" on the plant's cell membranes. These pumps help move metal molecules, like zinc, into and around the plant.
These special "HA genes" (HyperAccumulation genes) are found in over 450 plant species. This includes well-studied plants like Arabidopsis. When these HA genes are active, they allow the plant to take in and store metals.
Which Metals Can They Store?
Hyperaccumulator plants can store many different metals. Some examples include arsenic, cobalt, iron, copper, cadmium, lead, mercury, selenium, manganese, zinc, molybdenum, and nickel.
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See also
In Spanish: Planta hiperacumuladora para niños
