Trace elements profiling of hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus var. typicus L.): A rational screening of the breeding lines for biofortification programs

Abstract

Trace element malnutrition is a global malaise and remains a concern for humanity. Hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus L.), an underutilized legume vegetable, could be a suitable option to alleviate such malaise owing to its high content of trace elements. Our study aimed to evaluate phenotypic segregation of some pole-type hyacinth bean genotypes and their logical screening for specific biofortification programs (genetic or agronomic). We observed significantly (P <0.05) higher pod yields in 16/DOLP VAR 4 (344.19 q ha−1), 17/DOLP VAR 1 (283.47 q ha−1), 16/DOLP VAR 2 (280.19 q ha−1), and 16/DOLP VAR 1 (260.22 q ha−1) compared to others. Experimental results also revealed that yield was a function of pod weight and width. Although concentration of trace elements varied significantly (P <0.05) between the genotypes, 16/DOLP VAR 4 showed significantly (P <0.05) greater uptake of Zn (822.12 g ha−1), Fe (2240.28 g ha−1), and Cu (268.42 g ha−1). The relation between the trace elements was antagonistic in most genotypes for Mn and Cu (r = –0.34; P >0.05) followed by Zn and Fe (r = –0.25; P >0.05). Quadrant segregation, based on the relation between yield and uptake of trace elements, identified genotype BCDB 5 (low yield with less uptake potential) as suitable for agronomic biofortification (Zn and Fe) while 16/DOLP VAR 4 (high yield with greater uptake potential) for genetic biofortification (Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu) program. Since agronomic biofortification offers a scope for additional enrichment of trace elements concentration (particularly Zn and Fe), we conclude that it may be necessitated as an immediate effort to promote the underutilized hyacinth bean in populations with the potential for higher consumption.