Selenium speciation and content of oat kernels in response to foliar and soil selenium fertilization

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element in animals, plants, and humans (Schwarz et al. 1999). Many studies have shown that appropriate intake of Se can help reduce the risk of cancer and improve the body’s immune system (Combs et al. 2004). Among several common cereal crops (wheat, rice, corn, barley, oats), wheat has the strongest Se accumulation capacity, while oats have the lowest Se accumulation capacity (Lyons et al. 2003). Studies on the absorption and utilization of Se in crops such as wheat, rice, and barley have been reported extensively; however, there are few studies on oats (Li et al. 2009, Zhou et al. 2008).