Utilization of Pearl Millet Germplasm via Formation and Improvement of Two High Growth Rate Populations

摘要

Crop productivity has been described as the product of duration of growth and rate of growth (Takeda and Frey 1985). The majority of cultivated pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.j has a very short growth duration that is restricted to match the availability of moisture. Increased growth rate may thus be critical to maximizing the productivity of pearl millet. Previous research suggests that the formation of high growth rate populations using landrace, weedy, and wild accessions of pearl millet could be an effective approach for long-term improvement of productivity.