Genetic variability of 32 inbred special grains bean lines was investigated for grain yield, mass of 100 grains, cooking time, and mineral concentrations in grains, and Z index was used for selection of superior lines in most of the characters. IAC Centauro, IAC Galante, Xamego, Ouro Branco, Montcalm, and Hooter lines presented high yield grain, short cooking time (less than 24 min), and high potassium (>14 g kg-1dry matter [DM]), calcium (>1.42 g kg-1DM), iron (>97.60 mg kg-1DM), zinc (>29.05 mg kg-1DM) and copper (>8.67 mg kg-1DM) concentrations, and their dietary use is therefore recommended. Cal-96 line presents higher Z index for grain yield and for the most of the minerals, and its use is recommended for crosses for the development of superior lines.
Phaseolus vulgaris; nutritional quality; genetic variability; Z index
