Genetic Diversity among Nigeria 'Maiwa Type' of Pearl Millet Germplasm

Abstract

Characterization of pearl millet germplasm is imperative for categorization of germplasm and identification of the desirable genotypes for introgression into breeding programs. The available pearl millet genetic resources from Nigeria, and especially photoperiod-sensitive materials or stay-green traits, have so far been exploited only to a limited extent. The present study was undertaken for initial morphological and phonological characterization of unexploited 'maiwa' or stay-green pearl millet accession in geographical gaps of Nigeria, to ensure high precision in future genotyping and phenotyping. The germplasm displayed considerable variability for Downy mildew severity,,days to 50 % flowering, plant height, panicle length and grain weight. There was no significant differences to striga infestation since there was no experience of striga emergence, suggesting resistance. Cluster analysis for the traits depicted three clusters suggesting dissimilarity among genotypes although there are movements of materials across states within the maiwa millet growing areas as evidenced by genotypes from different states clustering together. The genetic potential of the genotypes can be exploited in future pearl millet breeding programs.