Evaluation of Some Sorghum Genotypes under Normal and Moisture-stress Conditions

Abstract

This study was undertaken to identify the morphological and
physiological attributes related to drought tolerance in sorghum [Sorghum
bicolor (L.) Moench]. Eight genotypes were tested in a pot experiment
carried out at Giessen, Germany. Drought conditions were imposed by
withholding watering of the plants when field water-holding capacity was
at 40% and 70%. The tested genotypes differed significantly in most of
the measured traits. Grain yield under drought stress ranged from 28 to 61
g/ plant, and relative yield ranged from 30% to 56% with an average of
47%. Based on yield/plant, the genotypes Wad Ahmed (61g), SAR
41(55g) and ICSR 91030 (54g) were the best under drought stress
conditions; and based on relative yield, the best genotypes were SAR 41
(56%), Wad Ahmed (55%), and Red Mugud (53%). The mean potassium
content was 18 mg/g, with a range of 14 mg/g (Red Mugud) to 22 mg/g
(Arfa Gadamak). Significant differences were obtained for protein
percentage of the dry matter under conditions of drought stress. The
values ranged from 14.1% (Red Mugud) to 16.7% (Tabat) with a mean of
15.3%. Grain yield under drought stress was positively correlated with