Potential of Cassava Clones for Iron, Zinc, and Selenium Biofortification

Abstract

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a crucial staple food in South America, providing starchy storage roots that contribute to the sustenance of millions. To address deficiencies in iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se), a global initiative is underway to identify plant species and genotypes that naturally accumulate these nutrients for human consumption, such as cassava. In this way, this study aims to identify potential cassava genotypes for biofortification in Fe, Zn, and Se, while also improving the overall cassava yield. We evaluated the accumulation potential of Fe, Zn, and Se in 20 South American cassava genotypes under traditional growing conditions, concurrently examining their photosynthetic and growth characteristics. Cassava roots exhibited Zn content ranging from 3.20 to 8.56 mg kg−1, Fe content from 2.20 to 10.73 mg kg−1, and Se content from 1.20 to 9.43 µg kg−1 (expressed on a dry basis). Genotypes MS018, DG014, and DG839 emerged as promising candidates for biofortification programs, displaying elevated levels of Fe, Zn, and Se, coupled with superior photosynthetic capacity. These genotypes, recommended for biofortification programs, also demonstrated increased yield potential. The findings from this study contribute to the development of cassava genotypes with enhanced agronomic biofortification and elevated yield potential.

Assessment of levels of selected macro and microelements present in biofortified provitamin-A cassava varieties

“…These findings regarding the essential elements surpassed the quantities. (Inacio et al, 2024) despite the different biofortified cassava varieties used in their study compared to ours.…”

“…The most common micronutrient deficiencies in cassava include vitamin A, iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) (Inacio et al, 2024). In this study, variations were observed in the elemental composition of different pro-vitamin A cassava varieties, reflecting slight differences in their genetic makeup.…”