Calciumoxalaatschaarslierten

Calciumoxalaatschaarslierten are calcium oxalate crystals that occur in a characteristic hair‑ or needle‑like form. The term is Dutch for calcium oxalate hair‑like filaments and refers to slender, elongated crystalline structures that can be found in some plant tissues as part of the plant’s crystal storage system. In plants these crystals belong to a group known as raphides or related forms, which are typically stored in specialized cells and can be organized into bundles or more dispersed clusters.

Occurrence and roles in plants

Calcium oxalate crystals are widespread in the plant kingdom and can be found in a variety of species, often within families that produce many idioblasts. The needle‑like structures may be present in leaves, stems, or seeds. Their exact function is still a matter of research, but they are generally thought to participate in calcium regulation, storage of excess calcium, and defense against herbivory by causing irritation or physical injury to some grazing animals when plant tissues are damaged.

Structure and formation

These crystals form when calcium ions combine with oxalate ions within specialized plant cells. The resulting mineralization can produce elongated, needle‑like crystals or complex aggregates. The size, shape, and arrangement of the crystals are influenced by cellular conditions, including pH, calcium availability, and the presence of organic compounds that guide crystal growth.

Relevance and health context

In a medical or laboratory context, calcium oxalate can also crystallize in urine, contributing to kidney stones in susceptible individuals. Diet, hydration, and metabolic factors influence stone risk. While calciumoxalaatschaarslierten are primarily a botanical term describing plant crystals, understanding their formation aids broader discussions of calcium metabolism and crystal biology.

See also: calcium oxalate, raphide crystals.