Title : Micro additions of boron and molybdenum bring macro impacts on one health
Abstract:
In plant and human nutrition, micronutrient cations specifically zinc and iron are over-prompted while anions viz. boron (B) and molybdenum (Mo) have always been soft-pedaled. In relation to plant, soil and human health, both B and Mo are least studied and understood elements. Further, B has emerged as second most deficient element throughout the world and the area suffering from Mo deficiency has not been estimated yet. However, several experiments conducted in North-Western Himalayan (NWH) region shows that supplementation of these elements to the plants bring eye-catching improvements not only in crop productivity and quality but also on soil health. Apart from agriculture, B and Mo have prime roles in human health. B deficiency in humans is known to cause arthritis, abnormal bone growth, osteoporosis, rapid heart rate and muscle cramps. While, Mo deficiency in humans can lead to tachycardia, headache, mental disturbances and coma. Studies depict that B and Mo follow the Liebig’s limiting factors in NWH region and responsible for low crop yields and micronutrient malnutrition in humans and animals. However, such deficiencies are more prevalent in the rural regions due to heavy reliance on cereal-based diet. Apart from being directly involved in human and plant health, it has been observed through several experiments that B and Mo supplementation to plants enhance the uptake of other essential nutrients also, therefore improve the nutritional quality of the food. Several researchers registered a significant increase in crop productivity ranging from 5-30 % with the application of micronutrients depending on soil types and crop management practices. Moreover, the optimum application of these nutrients contribute to better nutritional composition of the harvest viz. total soluble salts (TSS), Zn & Fe content, ascorbic acid, protein and starch. In acid soils, application of B and Mo documented an increase of 10-22% and 15-28%, in cereals and vegetable crops, respectively. Several genotypes of different crops were identified for different soil types which are more responsive to external B application. Furthermore, the foliar application of micronutrients in chelated form besides enhancing the crop productivity, improves the nutrient uptake and their recovery efficiency, thus, minimize the negative environmental impacts. Application of micronutrient anions not only improves the productivity and nutritional quality of crops, but also has positive economic benefits. Considering their significance; B and Mo need immediate attention in achieving sustainability development goals. However, for reaping the potential yields, the optimum management of micronutrient anions is very essential. Further, there is a need revisit the optimum doses for different crops and soil types.
Audience Take Away:
- The significance of boron and molybdenum in food, nutritional security and human health.
- This will certainly help the concerned audience to learn and understand the key roles of boron and molybdenum in food quantity and quality and ultimately on human health. Definitely other faculty should include such underrated, least studied and understood nutrients in research pursuits and teaching as well considering their role in human health and environment management. Yes, it is the only practical solution to have the balanced and nutrient rich food stuff. To meet the sustainable development goals, soil and nutrient management strategies should be the central focal point to achieve the one health mission.
