Comparative studies of pigment and nutrient contents of various castor genotypes

The selection of castor genotypes is an important factor for better growth and development of eri silkworm (Philosamia ricini) for higher productivity in terms of cocoon yield. This study has been made to find out the pigment and nutrient content of leaves of various castor genotypes (non bloomy green (NBG), non bloomy red (NBR) and DCS-107, DCH-519, DCH-177). The chlorophyll-a was significantly higher in tender leaves of DCH-177 (0.52 mg/g); in middle leaves of DCS-107(0.48 mg/g) and in mature leaves of NBR (0.46 mg/g) and chlorophyll-b was significantly higher in tender leaves of NBG (0.69 mg/g); middle leave of DCH-177(0.87 mg/g) and in mature leaves of DCH-177 (0.82 mg/g). Carotenoid content was significantly higher in tender leaves of NBG and DCH-177(0.19 mg/g); in middle leaves of DCH- 177(0.18 mg/g) and also in the mature leaves of NBG (0.17 mg/g). The total protein and carbohydrate were highest in NBR (49.85 and15.87 g% respectively). The major nutrient content of castor genotypes viz. nitrogen, phosphorous, kalium were more in local NBR genotype in comparison to hybrid genotypes. The study reflects wide variability among different genotypes with respect to pigment and nutrient content.