Response of elite Kenyan finger millet (Eleusine coracana, L. Gaertn) genotypes to Ethrel application

Kanguni, J S and Odeny, D A and Dangasuk, O G and Matasyoh, L G and Oduori, C O A (2015) Response of elite Kenyan finger millet (Eleusine coracana, L. Gaertn) genotypes to Ethrel application. International Letters of Natural Sciences, 48 (-). pp. 43-52. ISSN 2300-9675

[img]
Preview
PDF - Published Version
Download (458kB) | Preview

Abstract

Finger millet is a staple food crop of many communities in Africa. The crop is highly nutritious and has incredible grain storage quality. Limited research investment in finger millet in the past has resulted in poor yields and there are currently no commercial hybrids. We investigated the response of different finger millet genotypes (Okhale-1, Gulu-E, KACCIMMI-72, IE 2872, IE 4115 and U-15) to the application of a plant growth regulator hormone (Ethrel). Six elite Kenyan finger millet varieties with contrasting agronomic traits were crossed in a 6 x 6 diallel pattern. To enhance male sterility across female parents, we subjected the plants to Ethrel at concentrations of 1,500ppm, 1,750ppm and 2,000ppm against a 0ppm check. Dwarfing of sprayed plants that resulted in less lodging and ultimately higher yields were observed among plants sprayed with Ethrel at different concentrations. Ethrel application at 2,000ppm had the most dwarfing effect on plants while spraying plants with 1,500ppm of Ethrel resulted in increased grain weight. Although our results demonstrate overall positive effect of Ethrel on finger millet production, the optimum concentrations for more efficient hybridization will still need to be determined.

Item Type: Article
Divisions: RP-Dryland Cereals
CRP: CGIAR Research Program on Dryland Cereals
Uncontrolled Keywords: Ethrel, Diallel, Hybrids, Gametocide, Male sterility, CMS, Finger millet
Subjects: Mandate crops > Millets
Mandate crops > Millets > Finger Millet
Others > Genetics and Genomics
Depositing User: Mr Ramesh K
Date Deposited: 18 Apr 2016 05:37
Last Modified: 18 Apr 2016 05:37
URI: http://oar.icrisat.org/id/eprint/9434
Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.18052/www.scipress.com/ILNS.4...
Projects: UNSPECIFIED
Funders: UNSPECIFIED
Acknowledgement: UNSPECIFIED
Links:
View Statistics

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item