Impact of interaction P and ZN on biofortification of bean

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: A large part of the world population has low levels of micronutrients, especially pregnant women and children in developing countries. Zinc (Zn) is a micronutrient, performing many functions in the organism. Biofortifcation aims to increase the concentration of certain mineral in parts consumed of the cultivated plants. The crops of most interest are those that constitute the basic diet for the majority of the population, including beans.

Two main strategies are used in biofortification, selection of cultivars more favorable to biofortification and increase the micronutrient dose. Biofortification of bean with Zn is difficult due to interaction with phosphorus (P). The decrease in zinc absorption caused by phosphorus depends on soil atributes such as pH, cation exchange capacity and direct reaction with Zn and subsequent precipitation. The increase of the dose of Zn can reduce the absorption of iron by plants by competitve inhibition.

This study aimed to evaluate the interaction between P and Zn about biofortication in two bean cultivars, evaluating the concentration of Zn and iron in the grain and production.