Molybdenum in Plants:
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Molybdenum is highly mobile in the xylem and the phloem
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Plants obtain molybdenum in the form of molybdate ions (MoO22+).
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Affects synthesis of ascorbic acid; converts nitrates to amino acids
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A component of several enzymes, including nitrogenase and nitrate reductase (as plays an important role in the metabolism of nitrogen)
Deficiency symptoms
Deficiency symptoms of Molybdenum:
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Molybdenum deficiency (occurs mainly on acid soils) leads to mottling and wilting of leaves at the margins
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The deficiency appears as "yellow spot" disease in Citrus plant and "Whiptail" disease in cauliflowers that causes narrowing of leaf blades and their rugged appearance due to distortion.
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Flower formation is inhibited and damage of embryonic tissue is seen too.