Accumulation of Arsenic in Rice Plant from Arsenic Contaminated Irrigation Water and Effect on Nutrient Content

For Bangladesh, the requirement for food is very high due to its huge population. To achieve self-sufficiency in food grain production, the HYV rice varieties are widely produced in Bangladesh, particularly in the dry season, and this requires a large volume of groundwater irrigation. Groundwater of many areas of our country is severely contaminated with arsenic. So, there is a possibility of arsenic accumulation in rice and rice plants from arsenic contaminated irrigation water. Generally, consumption of protein is not adequate for our people due to insufficient production of major protein sources like fish, meat, milk, eggs etc. and also due to economic constraints. Any adverse effect on protein content in rice due to use of arsenic contaminated irrigation water may, therefore, enhance the malnutrition problem of our people. This study aims at assessing the accumulation of arsenic in rice plants and its possible effect on nutrient (protein) content of rice grains. Results from this study show that arsenic accumulates in different parts of rice plants, though the accumulation rate varies from variety to variety. Presence of arsenic in rice plants (leaf, stem) poses risks for cattle and human health. Test results for protein content show protein deficiencies in rice grains. More studies are needed to better understand these phenomena. 132 Fate of Arsenic in the Environment