Summary
This study quantifies declining plant-available zinc in Austrian arable soils over recent decades, with a 50% reduction in ZnEDTA observed. The decline is attributed to decreased mineral phosphate fertilisation, reduced industrial pollution, increased crop yields, and lower livestock density. In calcareous soils of the Northeastern flatlands—where 28% of fields show zinc deficiency and yield gains have plateaued since 1999—the authors argue that low soil zinc availability may limit adaptation to heat stress and grain biofortification.
UK applicability
The findings are potentially applicable to UK arable regions with similar soil chemistry (high pH, high exchangeable calcium, intensive cereal cultivation), particularly in the south and east where calcareous soils predominate. However, UK farming systems, soil parent materials, and historical nutrient inputs differ from Austria, requiring domestic research to validate whether similar micronutrient depletion has occurred.
Key measures
Plant-available micronutrient concentrations (ZnEDTA, FeEDTA, CuEDTA, MnEDTA, BAcetate); soil pH, exchangeable calcium, phosphorus; crop yields; grain zinc concentration (mg kg⁻¹); livestock density; farm management practices
Outcomes reported
The study examined spatio-temporal changes in plant-available micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B) across Austrian arable soils and their relationships with soil properties and farm management practices. It also tracked crop yields since 1999 and grain zinc contents from a long-term field trial.
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