Alteration of selenium transport and volatilization in barley (Hordeum vulgare) by arsenic

The investigation of interaction between arsenic and selenium indicated that effects on both selenate transport and Se metabolism were involved. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) seedlings were exposed to selenate in the presence of arsenate (0, 0.01, and 1.0 mg L−1), with Se uptake, translocation, and volatilization measured. Selenium uptake and translocation increased significantly for seedlings exposed to 1.0 mg As L−1. Selenium volatilization was significantly reduced by treatment with either 0.01 or 0.1 mg L−1 arsenate (P <0.001). The potential implications of this interaction in terms of the Se content and vegetation and potential toxicity to animals and humans are briefly discussed.