Physicochemical and germinative properties of biofortified pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) varieties

Abstract

Four biofortified pearl millet varieties were compared with the local variety of Andhra Pradesh in terms of physicochemical and germinative properties. Significant varietal difference was found on studied properties. The high mean values of 1000 grain weight and bulk density were found in Dhanshakti and AHB 1200 respectively. High germinative energy was found in Dhanshakti. The extremely high and low mean values of protein found in Pittaganti and RHB 234, Fiber high in RHB234 and low in ABV 04, ash high in Dhanshakti, AHB 1200 and low in ABV 04, fat high in RHB 234 and low in Dhanshakti, moisture high in RHB 234 and low in Dahnshakti. Iron and Zinc were found to be high in Dhanshakti whereas zinc was higher in ABV 04. Pittaganti has recorded lowest mineral content. Biofortified varieties have shown significantly high values for physicochemical and germinative properties compared to local non-biofortified variety. Rootlets and coleoptile or acrospore were developed after 48 and 72-hour germination. Further germination can lead to the development of the plant itself, hence it was suggestive to germinate the grains only for 24 hours.