AbstractAccumulation of109Cd byPs. fluorescenshas been investigated using the metabolic inhibitors: 1 mM dinitrophenol (DNP) and 100 μM NN′dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD). Although bacterial uptake of cadmium was reduced by DNP and DCCD, the ability of these inhibitors to complex109Cd was thought to be the cause, rather than a reduction in metabolic activity. This was substantiated by the absence of effects due to temperature and nutrient conditions. Experiments undertaken with Ca, Mg, Zn, and Mn ions have proven the competitive action of Ca, Mg, and Mn ions on cadmium upta