Spatial distribution and enrichment characteristics of selenium in paddy soil and rice around the Dongting Lake

  • 0College of Resources, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Selenium deficiency is a global health concern. This study found high selenium levels in Dongting Lake

Area Of Science

  • Environmental Science
  • Agricultural Science
  • Geochemistry

Background

  • Selenium (Se) deficiency poses a significant global health challenge.
  • The Dongting Lake region, a key agricultural hub in China, experiences soil and geographical influences on selenium accumulation in rice.
  • Understanding these factors is crucial for developing Se-enriched rice production strategies globally.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the spatial distribution and bioaccumulation of selenium (Se) in paddy soils and rice grains in the Dongting Lake area.
  • To assess the impact of parent materials, soil physicochemical properties, and geographical factors on Se content and bioaccumulation.
  • To identify key factors influencing Se enrichment in soil and rice for targeted agricultural practices.

Main Methods

  • Analysis of 15,403 paddy soil and rice grain samples for Se content and spatial distribution.
  • Assessment of the bioaccumulation factor (BCF) of Se.
  • Statistical analysis including correlation and Random Forest modeling to determine the influence of various factors (parent materials, soil properties, geographical factors) on Se content and BCF.

Main Results

  • The Dongting Lake area exhibits higher average soil Se (0.43 mg/kg) and rice grain Se (0.059 mg/kg) than Chinese background levels and standards, respectively.
  • Selenium levels were highest in the western and central regions, with widespread distribution of Se-enriched rice and fields.
  • Soil organic matter (SOM) was identified as the most influential factor for Se enrichment in both soil and rice (RR type), while pH was most significant for soil enrichment without rice uptake (RN type).
  • Parent materials, soil organic matter, zinc, altitude, mean annual precipitation, pH, and mean annual temperature were found to significantly influence Se content and BCF.

Conclusions

  • The Dongting Lake region is a promising area for Se-enriched rice production due to naturally high soil Se levels.
  • Soil organic matter and pH are critical factors controlling selenium enrichment in agricultural systems.
  • Findings provide valuable technical guidance for Se-enriched agriculture in the region and globally, contributing to improved human health and environmental quality.