Evaluation of Temperate Maize Inbred Lines for Iron (Fe) Concentration using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the important cereal crops, ranking third after wheat and rice. It holds the title of the "Queen" of cereals due to its wide cultivation and nutritional value it provides. Especially iron is crucial for the proper functioning of haemoglobin and blood formation. Unfortunately, insufficient consumption of iron-rich foods is the primary cause of iron deficiency in the underdeveloped countries. A research study was conducted at the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, aiming to investigate the diversity of 20 indigenous maize (Zea mays L.) inbred lines. Seeds were sown in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The study was conducted under open field conditions, focusing on genetic variations related to quality and yield traits. The results were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine variability among the inbred lines. Various parameters were recorded at maturity and after harvesting i.e., plant height, ear traits, and grain iron content. The evaluation of grain iron content revealed significant variation among the inbred lines tested. The inbred line with the highest iron content was 6162, recording 40.083 µg/g. Additionally, the analysis of other morphological and yield traits showed significant variations among the inbred lines. Three lines showed promising iron content: 6162 (40.083 µg/g), CRT-3 (36.417 µg/g), and 6199 (35.25 µg/g). Based on these research findings, there is a clear need to develop a breeding plan to enhance iron content in local maize germplasm