Timing of Anthesis in the Sorghum Hybrid MR Buster and the Elite Line 31945-2-2

摘要

The flowering biology of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is an important factor in hybrid seed production. A possible resistance mechanism to sorghum midge [Stenodiplosis sorghicola (Coquillett)] consists of resistant genotypes completing theirdaily flowering before sorghum midge begin ovipositing (Diarisso 1997). Flowering biology is important in interactions with sorghum ergot (caused worldwide by three species of Claviceps), because a successfully pollinated spikelet is no longer able to beinfected by ergot (Bandyopadhyay et al. 1998). Additionally, both Frederickson et al. (1993) and Ryley (personal communication) have trapped airborne conidia of C. africana and found peak conidial release occurred during daylight hours. Flowering outside this period may result in avoidance of peak times of airborne spores.