Effect of aluminum stress on mineral nutrition in rice cultivars differing in aluminum sensitivity

The effects of aluminum (Al) stress on ion concentration and distribution were investigated in four rice cultivars (Aiwu and IKP, Al sensitive; IRAT112 and IR6023, Al resistant). Macro and micronutrient levels in plant tissues were markedly affected by Al and the magnitude of this effect depended on the cultivar group (Al resistance versus Al sensitivity) and on the concentration of Al in the nutrient solution. Al decreased Ca, P, K, Mg and Mn concentrations in shoot and K, Mg and Mn in root. It increased Ca and P in root and caused an increase in shoot and root Al contents. All these effects were observed in both cultivar groups, but were more apparent in Al sensitive ones. In conclusion, the results support the idea that, compared to the Al sensitive cultivars Aiwu and IKP, Al resistance in IRAT112 and IR6023 could be explained by a limited absorption and translocation of Al from root to shoot and could also be explained by a more efficient transport of Ca, P and Mn from root to shoot. These findings showed clearly that more than one mechanism may contribute to Al resistance in rice plants.