Appraising components of genetic variation and estimation of micronutrients and antinutrient parameters in black gram (Vigna mungo L.) genotypes

A study was conducted to evaluate 30 black gram (Vigna mungo L.) genotypes for genetic variation in micronutrients and anti-nutritional factors. All the genotypes exhibited significant genetic variability for protein content (16.19-31.07%), iron (60.98-95.50 ppm), zinc (35.89-44.01 ppm), and selenium (1.12 to 19.53 ppm). Four genotypes, namely, PU-15-21 showed higher values for protein, PU-15-30 for iron, PU-KUG21 for zinc, and PU-8 for selenium contents. Phytic acid content ranged from 0.09 to 5.65 mg/g, with PU7 exhibiting the lowest. Correlation analysis indicated positive relationships between protein and seed yield iron and zinc contents. A few genotypes showed higher micronutrient levels and seed yield along with lower phytic acid, suggesting their potential for breeding aimed at enhancing micronutrient content and yield with low phytic acid levels in black gram.