Effect of Selenium supply on some attributes and mineral content in bean seed (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Selenium on the morphological and physical characteristics, weight, and content of minerals in the bean seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). A randomized complete block experimental design with seven replications was used. The treatments were three chemical formulations of Selenium: sodium selenite (Na2SeO3), selenium dioxide (SeO2) and sodium selenate (Na2SeO4) at three concentrations each one: 5, 10 and 20 mg L-1, more the control (only deionized water). The application of 10 mg L-1 of Na2SeO3 improved the width and length of the grain, with values of 7.22 and 12.68 mm, respectively, and the application 5 mg L-1 of SeO2, improved the thickness and diameter of the grain, with values of 5.04 mm, and 7.68 mm, respectively. Consequently, the weight of 100 seeds was significantly higher when 5 mg L-1 of Na2SeO3 and SeO2 were supply, with values of 30 and 30.99 g, respectively. The Na2SeO3 and SeO2 formulations at concentrations of 5 mg L-1, improved the radius aspect, the volume and surface area of the grain. Finally, the application of SeO2 and Na2SeO3 at concentrations of 10 and 20 mg L-1, moderately increased the content of Ca and Cu, respectively. The Na2SeO3 and SeO2 formulations at dose 5 mg L-1 was the most consistent in showing a better effect in improving the attributes of bean seeds, compared to the Na2SeO4 formulation in any of the concentrations used in this study.