World Sorghum Germplasm Collection And ConservationM HMengeshaauthorK E PRaoauthorGermplasm is the most important raw material for any
crop improvement program, and yet the possible extinction of
this invaluable resource is a reality the world has to face
(10,18). The origin and early domestication of sorghum
most probably took place in the northeast quadrant of Africa, in
the Ethiopia-Sudan border area extending westward to Chad (3,8).
Other areas in West Africa and Asia are also important centers
of diversity. It is in these areas that original landraces
still exist but are also endangered (6, 18). If man is to
avert food shortages and subsequent famines, he has to
accelerate crop improvement programs, starting with the collection
and conservation of the vanishing germplasm.Sorghum1990Conference or Workshop Item