UPTAKE AND DISTRIBUTION OF SELENIUM, NITROGEN AND SULFUR IN THREE BARLEY CULTIVARS SUBJECTED TO SELENIUM APPLICATIONS

Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for humans and animals, and also affects plant metabolism. In this study, the effects of increasing doses of Se application on the uptake of selenium (Se), nitrogen (N), and sulfur (S) content of three barley cultivars were investigated. The analysis indicated that the Se contents were highest in root tissues, intermediate in grain, and lowest in stem tissues in all cultivars. Total Se accumulations (whole plant) were highest in 'Bulbul 89' (0.171 mg kg(-1)), intermediate in 'Cetin 2000' (0.153 mg kg(-1)), and lowest in 'Tarm 92' cultivars (0.124 mg kg(-1)). In all cultivars, the increase in grain Se content resulted in a decrease in the grain N content. While 'Bulbul 89' can be suggested for biofortification purposes, less Se accumulating 'Tarm 92' cultivar can be suggested as a fodder in Se contaminated or high Se containing areas.