Geographic patterns of genetic diversity and fertility restoration ability of Asian and African origin pearl millet populations

A set of 45 diverse Asian and African origin/bred populations pearl millet were investigated multi-locationally for morphological traits including grain yield assessed their fertility restoration ability on three cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) systems in two contrasting seasons. Significant genetic variation was found all the linked traits. Multivariate analysis its component grouped these into five clusters. Most origin single cluster (Cluster III) separated from rest indicating presence correspondence between clustering pattern geographical populations. Clusters dominated with (As-As) had linkages early flowering, short plant height, more number tillers, small thin panicles, seeded low compared to clusters by (Af-Af) or bred (Af-As) Genetically related having common parentage same Fertility restoration/maintainer frequency CMS revealed that overall highest A1 (86%) followed A4 (37%) A5 (7%) system. Five identified as potential sources developing maintainer lines eight specifically systems. 11 four restorer line development exclusively system, respectively. Six dual restorers both