Variability in Mineral Content of indica Rice Genotypes of Assam, India

Significant genetic variations for grain concentration of all 9 mineral elements were observed. The range of macro elements like, phosphorous (P), sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) were recorded in the range of 0.272–0.412 per cent, 0.051–0.065 per cent, 0.190–0.232 per cent, 0.023–0.036 per cent and 0.039–0.049 per cent, respectively. The micro elements like iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) were found to be 2.34–4.21mg/100g, 1.02–3.87 mg/100g, 0.400–1.64 mg/100g and 2.10–4.66 mg/100g respectively. On average, the nine mineral content in rice genotypes were followed an order as P>K>Na>Mg>Ca>Zn>Fe>Mn>Cu. There is a significant correlation observed among different minerals. Highest estimate of GCV and PCV was recorded for Cu, which indicate plentiful variability of Cu content for genetic improvement. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance were observed for Cu, Mn, Zn and Fe which indicate preponderance of additive genetic effect in control of these minerals, which suggested the scope of genetic improvement of these minerals based on phenotypic performance.