Evaluating the Cu and Zn status of various rice soils of Peninsular Malaysia
2016
Babar, S. K. | M. Khanif Y. | Samsuri A. W.
Malaysia is taking efforts to be self˗sufficient in rice production. However, the country is facing low availability of Cu and Zn in its soils. Even though these elements are required insmall quantities for normal plant growth, their role in maximising yield is very impressive.The present study was conducted to assess the micronutrient Cu and Zn contents inselected paddy soils of Malaysia. Investigations carried out showed that marine alluvium[Guar, Sedaka, Keranji, Kuala Kedah, Kangkong, Sedu, Rotan and Kundur (Kedah)] andreverine alluvium; [Chempaka, Lubok Itek, Lating, Batu Hitam and Machang soil series(Kelantan)] were low in Cu and Zn contents. All soils were acidic in nature, with their pHvalues ranging from 4.3 to 6.5. Based on the results, extractable Cu and Zn concentrationof soil varied within the range of 0.09˗1.70 and 0.51˗2.10 mg kg˗1 in the soil series of KualaKedah and LubukItek, respectively. It was manifested that the micronutrient contentswere below the critical level (Cu 0.1˗1.0 mg kg˗1 and Zn 0.5˗3.0 mg kg˗1)according to themethod of extracting analysis; Mehlich˗I. The sampling depth has shown a variation andthe subsurface soil sampling exhibited lesser Cu and Zn contents as compared to the surfacesoil sampling. Findings of the research indicate that micronutrient deficiency occurs in themain rice regions of Malaysia, and this can be corrected by applying micronutrient fertiliser.
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