Variation in mineral micronutrient content in durum (Triticum durum L.) wheat genotypes under rainfed conditions

Abstract

Durum wheat (Triticum durum L.) is tetraploid wheat known for its hardness, protein, intense yellow colour, nutty flavour and excellent cooking qualities. The crop was raised at the field of Wheat and Barley Section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding following Randomized Block Design (RBD) layout with three replications during the rabi season (2014-15).The availability of nutrients from a particular food depends on its chemical composition. 36 durum wheat genotypes were evaluated for micronutrient contents (Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn). Micronutrient concentration varied significantly among different genotypes of wheat grains. Maximum iron content was found in PDW 337 (51.0 μg/g) and minimum of 29.10 μg/g in HI 8749. Zinc content was observed maximum in MACS 3873 (46.93 μg/g) and minimum in 30.30 μg/g in HI 8498. Manganese was found maximum in UAS 448 (38.50 μg/g) and minimum in GW 1299 (22.40 μg/g). Copper was found maximum in PDW 335 (6.28 μg/g) and minimum value was observed in GW 1298 (3.12 μg/g).