Anthocyanosis: Causes, Symptoms and How to Prevent It

anthocyanosis

La anthocyanosis It is a plant condition that can cause discoloration on leaves, as well as other symptoms related to chlorophyll. It is often confused with other physiological problems, but it is actually due to a imbalance in anthocyanin levels in plants. This compound, which is so important for the colour of flowers and leaves, can produce certain reddish, blue and violet hues depending on the pH of the environment.

This phenomenon is observed in different plant species, but it is crucial to understand how it affects each plant and what we can do to prevent or correct its effects. Throughout this article, we will break down the characteristics of anthocyanosis, how to identify it, and what measures we can take to protect our crops.

What is anthocyanosis?

Anthocyanosis refers to the physical manifestation of excessive accumulation of anthocyanins in the leaves of a plant. Anthocyanins are pigments belonging to the flavonoid family and are responsible for the red, purple and blue colors in many plants. When these pigments accumulate, they can cause leaves to take on a reddish or purple color, especially under certain environmental conditions such as cold temperatures o nutritional stress.

This phenomenon is commonly observed in species such as the Avena sativa (oats), as well as in other ornamental plantsA change in the color of the leaves is a sign that the plant is experiencing some type of stress or that its metabolism is being altered.

Anthocyanins and their role in plants

Red Coleus

The anthocyanins are important compounds in plants that serve primarily as pigments. However, their role is not limited to coloration alone. Anthocyanins also help to protect plants from ultraviolet radiation and oxidative damage. In addition to their protective function, they have a defensive role, since their intense coloring can attract pollinators or deter certain herbivores.

Under the right conditions, anthocyanins are in balance within the plant. However, with inappropriate temperature, pH and other environmental factors, the metabolism is altered, and we begin to see the typical symptoms of anthocyanosis, such as discoloration of leaves.

The different anthocyanidins

There are different types of anthocyanidins, which are the aglycone forms of anthocyanins. Each type of anthocyanidin produces different shades of color in plants. Among the most common we find:

  • Cyanidin: Produces tones red or purple in plants.
  • Delphinidin: Related to bluish tones in plants.
  • Malvidina: Responsible for the purple colors in flowers and fruits.
  • Pelargonidin: Produces colors orange or salmon.

The scientist Richard Willstätter was the first to describe how changes in pH could affect the hue of anthocyanins. Depending on whether the environment was more acidic or more alkaline, anthocyanins could change color, leading to the reddish, purple or bluish hues that we often see in plants affected by anthocyanosis.

Plants affected by anthocyanosis

Pelargonium citrosum is a cultivar of Pelargonium graveolens

Image - Wikimedia / Mokkie

La anthocyanosis It is common in many plant species. Some of the most affected include:

  • Avena sativa (ornamental oats), which rapidly show signs of discoloration.
  • Fruits like blueberry and Cherry, which present a notable accumulation of anthocyanins.
  • Ornamental plants such as the Pelargonium y Dahlia, which develop extremely intense colours due to high levels of anthocyanins.

In these and other plants, anthocyanosis is common when plants are exposed to environmental stress, such as prolonged exposure to cold, lack of nutrients or insufficient sunlight.

Impact of anthocyanosis on the plant immune system

Interestingly, the anthocyanins appear to have a direct link with the protection of the immune system of plants. Various studies have shown that the Regular consumption of fruits rich in anthocyanins, such as blueberries or grapes, can improve the body's defenses. In plants, anthocyanins have a similar effect, helping to improve their resistance to adverse conditions.

However, excess buildup can be harmful as it interferes with the photosynthesis and other vital processes in the leaves.

In general, plants develop anthocyanins as a defensive response to various types of environmental stress, and while in some situations these are beneficial, when conditions are excessively adverse, the plant cannot handle the buildup and is affected by anthocyanosis.

How to prevent and treat anthocyanosis

Maples are often acidic plants.

To prevent plants from developing anthocyanosis, it is important to ensure that growing conditions are always the adequate and balancedSome recommendations that can help prevent the onset of this condition include:

  • Provide sufficient sunlight, as lack of it can lead to disruption of anthocyanin metabolism.
  • Ensure that the plant receives an adequate supply of nutrients, especially potassium, which plays a crucial role in the process.
  • Avoid frost or extremely low temperatures, which can induce the accumulation of anthocyanins in the leaves.

Once a plant has developed anthocyanosis, it is important to intervene quickly. Depending on the severity of the case, you can try to adjust the soil pH or provide a specific nutrient supplement.

Anthocyanosis is an interesting phenomenon that, although it may seem serious, is often an indicator that the plant is trying to protect itself. Recognizing the symptoms in time and making the necessary adjustments to environmental conditions can help plants recover and continue to grow strong and healthy. Always remember to evaluate factors such as light, pH and nutrients, which are key to preventing this type of imbalance.


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