Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] breeding for resistance to leaf and stalk anthracnose, Colletotrichum sublineolum, and improved yield: Progress and prospects

Abstract

Sorghum is one of the main staple food crops for millions of subsistence farmers in Africa. Biotic and abiotic challenges are the major production constraints of the crop. Amongst the sorghum biotic constraints, anthracnose is the major devastating disease causing up to 80% of yield reduction. The productivity and profitability of sorghum is limited by several biotic constraints, most notably anthracnose caused by the aggressive fungal pathogen Colletotrichum sublineolum. The most effective and environmentally responsible strategy to control anthracnose is through the incorporation of resistance genes. However, although several sources have been identified, the lack of information with regard to its genetic control of resistance has limited their adequate use in breeding programs. Additionally, the limitations of breeding regarding the leaf and stalk anthracnose resistance and also the need for evaluating materials for resistance and yield in different environments is of major importance. There is limited information about the combining ability, gene action and genetic effects and relationships between anthracnose resistance and grain yield which is required in devising appropriate strategies for developing resistant and high yielding sorghum varieties. This review provides theoretical basis of the progress and challenges for breeding sorghum for anthracnose resistance and improved yield.