Nutrient use efficiency (NUE)
noun phrasePronunciation: /ˈnjuːtriənt ˈjuːs əˈfɪʃənsi/
The ratio of plant biomass or grain yield produced per unit of nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) absorbed or applied, reflecting how effectively plants utilize available nutrients. NUE declines under abiotic stress as nutrient uptake, transport, and metabolic utilization become impaired.
Plain English
How effectively a plant converts absorbed nutrients into growth and yield compared to the total nutrients it takes up.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Nitrogen use efficiency decreased significantly in heat-stressed maize due to reduced nitrate uptake and impaired amino acid synthesis."
Style guide notes: Specify which nutrient (N, P, K) when discussing NUE; clearly define numerator and denominator for comparative studies.
Also known as
Contrasted with
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
How does abiotic stress affect nutrient use efficiency?
Stress reduces nutrient uptake capacity, impairs translocation, disrupts metabolic pathways, and decreases biomass accumulation efficiency.
Why is nutrient use efficiency important in agriculture?
It indicates fertilizer effectiveness, determines crop productivity, reduces environmental pollution, and identifies stress-tolerant cultivars.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Crucial metric for evaluating crop performance under combined nutrient and abiotic stress, essential for breeding and agronomic optimization.
Required skill level: Mid