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Genetic Variability for Mineral Elements in Reed Canarygrass¹

Genetic variability in forage crops for mineral concentration has not been exploited to correct mineral deficiency or imbalance in plants or feeds. The objectives of this study were to determine gene action for concentration of several major and minor elements and to obtain estimates of K/(Ca + Mg) ratio in reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea L.).

Twelve parent clones selected randomly from a broad genetic base and 30 two-clone crosses of an incomplete diallel were evaluated in small field plots during each of 3 harvest years (one year for N) at two locations to determine genetic variability for mineral concentration. Concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Zn, Cu, and Mn were determined in first regrowth forage. Also, the K/(Ca + Mg) ratio was calculated. Most genotypes contained less Ca and Zn than that required to meet the daily needs for a moderately producing dairy cow. The Mn concentration was higher than that usually reported as was the K/(Ca + Mg) ratio.

General combining ability was detected (P < 0.01) for all characters, but specific combining ability only for Mn (P < 0.05). Additive genetic variance was present (P < 0.05) for all elements except N, while non-additive genetic variance was observed only for Mn concentration. Narrow-sense heritability estimates were moderately high except those for N concentration and K/(Ca + Mg) ratio.

The estimated potential ranges of mineral concentration that could be reached through a few cycles of selection indicated that Ca and Zn concentrations could be brought up to the desired level. The K concentration could be reduced considerably barring genetic correlation between K and Ca. The phenotypic correlations involving K, Ca, and Mg were all positive. The K/(Ca Mg) ratio could be genetically maintained in a range of 3.0 ± 0.5 units.

Concentrations of maior elements were negatively correlated with forage yield of parent clones and were generally larger than correlations computed for the crosses. Only N and P were significantly negatively correlated with yield in the crosses.

Key Words: Phalaris arundinacea L. • Quantitative inheritance • N • P • K • Ca • Mg • Zn • Cu • Mn • Mineral nutrition • Ratio of K to Ca + Mg • Grass tetany • Hypomagnesemia

² Professors, Dept. of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, Univ. of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108.

³ Former graduate research assistant, now plant breeder, Hawaiian Sugar Planter's Assoc. Honolulu, HI 96822.

Received for publication May 27, 1977.