Influence of phosphorus on the arsenic uptake by tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L) irrigated with arsenic solutions at four different concentrations

We have studied the uptake and distribution of arsenic (As) and phosphorus (P) in roots, shoots and berries of tomato plants, grown on uncontaminated soil, irrigated with As-contaminated solutions at four concentrations (0, 0.5, 2 and 4 mg L-1), in presence or absence of P fertilization. The biomass of tomato plants decreased with increasing As concentration in irrigation water, especially tomato berries. In addition, the reduction of biomasses was significantly greater in plants non-fertilized with P. The beneficial effect generated with the P addition indicated that this nutrient played an important role in alleviating As toxicity in tomato plants. The higher the As concentration in irrigation water the higher the As concentration in plant tissues; most of the As absorbed by plants was accumulated in their roots. Phosphorus application has allowed to reduce As translocation toward tomato berries, enhancing plant P status. These observations may be useful for certain areas of the World, in which As-contaminated waters are used for agricultural purposes.