Original Article

Heredity (1996) 77, 509–517; doi:10.1038/hdy.1996.178

A polymorphism for phosphate uptake/arsenate tolerance in Holcus lanatus L.: is there a correlation with edaphic or environmental factors?

Judy Naylor1, Mark R Macnair1, Eirene N D Williams2 and Paul R Poulton3

  1. 1Department of Biological Sciences, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Prince of Wales Road, Exeter EX4 4PS, UK
  2. 2Seale Hayne, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Land Use, University of Plymouth, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ12 6NQ, UK
  3. 3IACR-Rothamsted, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2JQ, UK

Correspondence: Judy Naylor, Department of Biological Sciences, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Prince of Wales Road, Exeter EX4 4PS, U.K.

Received 20 December 1995.

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Abstract

Arsenate tolerance in Holcus lanatus L. is achieved by suppression of the high affinity phosphate uptake system. Tolerant plants are found at high frequency on noncontaminated soils. The selective agents acting to maintain this polymorphism are not understood. Work on the Park Grass Experiment and a nationwide survey revealed no significant correlation between the frequency of tolerant individuals and environmental or edaphic characteristics of the site. The results are interpreted in light of the low availability of phosphate in soil solution.

Keywords:

arsenate tolerance, Holcus lanatus L., phosphate uptake, polymorphism

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