This paper summarizes our studies on metal and metalloid uptake by the date palm, Phoenix dactylifera L., a tree of considerable importance in arid regions. The typical concentrations of 17 elements in the date palm a...This paper summarizes our studies on metal and metalloid uptake by the date palm, Phoenix dactylifera L., a tree of considerable importance in arid regions. The typical concentrations of 17 elements in the date palm are summarized and compared with existing data in the scientific literature. The role and toxicity of these elements are considered. Issues encountered by us during sample collection, pre-treatment and chemical analysis are described. Future studies are suggested.展开更多
The alternate bearing effect is when plants produce abundant crops of fruit in some years, but sparse yields in others. This review summarises recent studies that suggest a connection between the alternate bearing eff...The alternate bearing effect is when plants produce abundant crops of fruit in some years, but sparse yields in others. This review summarises recent studies that suggest a connection between the alternate bearing effect in the date palm, Phoenix dactylifera, and the presence of certain chemical elements (mostly metals) in the tree tissues. So far, there is evidence that levels of Ag, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, K, La, Mg, Mn, N, Na, Se, Tl, and Zn in the dates and leaflets are affected by the alternate bearing phenomenon. The significance of this work, therefore, emphasises the prospect of using our experimental data to overcome sparse yields, due to the alternate bearing effect, and producing more prolific growth of fruits. The potential agricultural, economic, environmental and health implications of these findings are considered.展开更多
文摘This paper summarizes our studies on metal and metalloid uptake by the date palm, Phoenix dactylifera L., a tree of considerable importance in arid regions. The typical concentrations of 17 elements in the date palm are summarized and compared with existing data in the scientific literature. The role and toxicity of these elements are considered. Issues encountered by us during sample collection, pre-treatment and chemical analysis are described. Future studies are suggested.
文摘The alternate bearing effect is when plants produce abundant crops of fruit in some years, but sparse yields in others. This review summarises recent studies that suggest a connection between the alternate bearing effect in the date palm, Phoenix dactylifera, and the presence of certain chemical elements (mostly metals) in the tree tissues. So far, there is evidence that levels of Ag, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, K, La, Mg, Mn, N, Na, Se, Tl, and Zn in the dates and leaflets are affected by the alternate bearing phenomenon. The significance of this work, therefore, emphasises the prospect of using our experimental data to overcome sparse yields, due to the alternate bearing effect, and producing more prolific growth of fruits. The potential agricultural, economic, environmental and health implications of these findings are considered.