Potassium Distribution in the Apical Region of Rice Root

Potassium (K) distribution in rice (Oryza sativa L.) root was studied by confocal laser microscopy, using potassium sensitive fluorescent dye potassium-binding benzofuran isophthalate (PBFI). Significantly high intensity of K-specific fluorescence was detected at the root cap region followed by meristematic and basal regions. A negligible or fainted fluorescence was observed at the root hairs area. These results suggest that K is heavily distributed in the apical area of rice root, which may be required in higher concentration for division and extension of cells, as it is the rapidly growing region of the root, moreover, may also be involved in water uptake by creating osmotic gradient across membranes.