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Zinc has been
recognized as an essential trace mineral for plants, animals and humans
and as an enzyme constituent playing a role in the synthesis of collagen,
in the metabolism of DNA and RNA and thus playing an important role in the
reproduction of cells. The average adult body contains between 1.5 and 3 g
of zinc with approximately 60 per cent of this in the muscles, 30 per cent
in the bones and 6 per cent in the skin. The highest concentrations of
zinc are in the prostate gland and sperm in men, and in red and white
blood cells. The retina of the eye, liver and kidneys also have high
concentrations and there is some zinc in hair.
Zinc acts as an
essential micro nutrient for plant growth. As a result of extensive
research conducted since 1960 in All India Co-ordinated Project on
Micronutrients in soils and plants it has been concluded that zinc
deficiencies are widespread in India. Most states now recognise the need
reported where application of zinc along with NPK fertilizers becomes
deciding factor for the success or failure of the crop. |
