Effect of Zinc Application on Zn Content and Uptake in Grain, Husk and Straw of Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Aim: To assess the Zn content and uptake in grain, husk and straw of rice plant at maturity with and without Zn application under low land soils for hybrid rice (Oryza sativa L.).

Study and Design: The experiment was laid down in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications of each treatment.

Place and Duration of Study: The field experiments were conducted at farmer’s fields in three districts (i.e., Ranchi, Khunti and Lohardaga) of Jharkhand during Kharif season of the year 2015.

Methodology: The experiment was consisted of four levels of zinc (0.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 kg ha-1) applications. After harvesting the grain and straw were collected separately. Brown rice (de-husked rice) was separated by hand mill and the plant materials were processed with following standard procedure of washing, drying and grinding. Zn content in grain (brown rice/de-husked rice), husk and straw of rice plants were analyzed by digestion with tri acid mixture (HNO3: HClO4: H2SO4 in 10:4:1) and concentrations were read with the help of atomic absorption spectrophotometer (ECIL4139).

Results: Results indicated that the zinc contents and uptake in rice plant at maturity, significantly was influenced by various levels of zinc application. The higher concentration of Zn in grain, husk and straw was showed at 7.5 kg Zn ha-1 followed by 5.0 kg Zn ha-1 application. The magnitude of Zn concentration was found in an order; straw (88.32-124.77 mg kg-1)>grain (23.20-34.27 mg kg-1) >husk (20.37-30.80 mg kg-1).

Conclusion: It was observed that the zinc concentration and uptake was significantly influenced by various levels of zinc applications as compared to no zinc application. The magnitude of Zn concentration was found in an order; straw>grain>husk and it is concluded that the application of Zn in staple foods like rice may play a vital role in reducing Zn deficiency in humans and animals beings.