Reactions of Sorghum Genotypes to Anthracnose and Grey Leaf Spot Diseases Under Sudan and Sahel Savanna Field Conditions of Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT Ten early- and 10 medium-maturing sorghum genotypes were evaluated for individual and multiple resistance to anthracnose and grey leaf spot in field trials carried out at Ajiwa (Sahel savanna) and Bagauda (Sudan savanna), Nigeria in the 1995, 1996 and 1997 wet seasons. Among the early-maturing genotypes, five were resistant to anthracnose and two resistant to grey leaf spot, while one genotype ICSV 901 NG had resistance to both. Among the medium-maturing, five genotypes were resistant to anthracnose and grey leaf spot while four of these genotypes, CGM 19/9-1-1, CEM 328/2-1-1-3, Sariasso 10 and Gaya early (local) had low disease scores for both diseases. Further, local landraces had low disease susceptibility and comparable high yields indicating the need to promote their use in areas where they are adapted to ensure sustainable sorghum production. The study shows the availability of sorghum genotypes with stable resistance to anthracnose and grey leaf spot within Nigeria.