Multi‐trait stability index for the identification of shoot fly (Atherigona soccata) resistant sorghum lines from a mini core collection

Abstract

BACKGROUNDOn sorghum, shoot fly (Atherigona soccata Rondani) is the most destructive insect pest causing enormous economic losses. Breeding for host plant resistance is the best and economically viable strategy to control shoot fly damage. For improving resistance, there is a need to identify better donors with resistance, stability and adaptability. Sorghum mini core set representing global genetic diversity offers opportunity to understand genetic diversity of resistance component traits, their genotype × year (G × Y), and to identify better donors based on mean performance of multiple shoot fly resistance traits coupled with stability.RESULTSSignificant genetic variability and G × Y interaction was detected for all traits in the mini core set. Broad sense heritability and accuracy of selection for traits was high. Genetic correlation between deadhearts and leaf surface glossiness and with seedling height were negative while genetic correlation of deadhearts with oviposition was positive. The sorghum races did not establish any inherent relation with shoot fly resistance. Based on multiple trait stability index (MTSI), the study identified 12 stable resistant accessions. Selection differential and selection gains in the selected genotypes were positive for both glossiness and seedling height and were negative for deadhearts and Eggs.CONCLUSIONThe MTSI selected new sources of resistance may constitute a breeding population for providing a dynamic gene pool of different resistance mechanisms for improving shoot fly resistance in sorghum. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Sorghum fodder line’s reaction to shoot fly, Atherigona soccata and stem borer

“…For its control, breeding for host plant resistance is the best and economically feasible strategy. Genetic correlation between dead hearts and leaf surface glossiness and with seedling height were negative (Madhusudhana and Padmaja 2023) [6] . In Maharashtra, pest causing dead hearts in early seedling stage, reducing plant population thereby causing heavy yield losses up to 75.60% in grain and 68.90% of fodder (Khandare et al 2013) [4] .…”