Evaluation of Rice (Oryza Sativa L.) Cultivars for Deep Root System and Estimation of Iron Content in Grain Grown under Aerobic Condition

Study of deep root system is an important trait to develop drought resistant rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties. Limited availability of water causing a shift from flooded to aerobic condition for rice production. Micronutrient malnutrition arising from dietary deficiency affects 1.6 billion population worldwide particularly women and children.

The experiment was conducted with eight diverse rice genotypes using basket method in aerobic condition to explore deep root system and after maturity gains were harvested and de-husked and estimation Iron (Fe) content conducted by using X-ray florescence spectrometry (XRF).

Genotype X year interactions for the S-R (Shoot-root) ratio, with Devamallige, AM65, and BJ21showed responding more to water stress as compared to other genotypes. Azucena had highest root diameter (1.5mm) and root length (41.33cm) followed by Devamallige (1.4mm) (41.17cm) and AM65 (1.4mm) (38.4cm) respectively under aerobic condition. Whereas, IR20 showed lowest root thickness (0.7mm) and root length (31cm) in the same condition. Increase in root angle of 0⁰-45⁰ under aerobic condition indirectly measure the increase in deep root length. Grain iron content of genotypes ranging from 7.4 (Jeerige sanna), IR20 (10.25) and 30.6 ppm (BJ 21). Variations in Fe conted is dueto different samples of the same accession can also arise due to presence or absence of embryo in grains, time of harvest or different digestion or analytical methods.

The present study concludes that genotypes with thicker root diameter and highest deep root length were also recorded good capacity of Fe uptake which revealed in high content of Fe after analysis. These results ropes in developing rice varieties which are superior in both drought tolerance and also in micronutrient uptake.