Fluoride and Fluorocarbon in Soil and Plant: Sources, Toxicity, and Prevention Methods

Fluorine is an unusual chemical element that occurs naturally; nevertheless, plants do not necessarily need it. Whether it originates from nature or man-made sources, fluoride and fluorocarbon poisoning can develop when an excessive amount of fluoride is consumed. When it comes to plants, fluoride is basically a killer. Damage to the leaves and restricted development is result of even trace amounts of fluorine in plants that are sensitive to it. Plants, soil, and humans are all vulnerable to the harmful effects of fluoride when exposed to higher quantities for longer periods of time. The human body is vulnerable to these consequences. Soil, gases, water, and dust contaminated with fluoride can alter plant morphology and physiology, leading to these impacts on vegetation. Plants can experience either short-term or long-term effects from fluoride, with the former being more severe depending on the concentration and the latter on the duration of exposure. Persistent accumulation of fluoride inside plant subcellular structures causes fluoride toxicity, which in turn triggers metabolic activity. The processes of mineral nutrition, development, photosynthesis, respiration, cellular enzyme and germination are all negatively impacted by fluoride poisoning. Further, the fact that this toxicity hinders the activity of anti-oxidative enzyme systems—including those that disrupt cell signalling and superoxide dismutase processes—is well-known. In this chapter, we will be discussing the substantial effects of fluoride and fluorocarbons on soil and plants in detail. Also talk on where fluoride comes from and how plants can largely tolerate it.