A recent report by the University of Queensland (UQ), Australia, has sparked interest in the field of agricultural genetics. The study identified certain sorghum genes with the potential to increase the grain size of this crop significantly.
The research focused on the sorghum genome and managed to pinpoint as many as 125 regions where DNA sequence variations correlated with grain size and the plant’s response to different environmental conditions. Moreover, the researchers discovered new genetic variants that could potentially double the weight of sorghum grain.
The Importance of Bigger Grain Size
An increased grain size offers several benefits for the usage value of the sorghum crop. For starters, larger grains are more digestible for both humans and animals, making the crop a more efficient source of nutrients. In addition, the processing efficiency of sorghum is improved with bigger grains, thus providing more yield for farmers and consumers alike.
Sorghum: A Versatile Crop
Sorghum is highly valued worldwide due to its versatility. This grain crop is used for multiple purposes including human consumption, animal feed, and bioenergy production. Nutritionists recommend sorghum for its low glycemic index, gluten-free nature, and high nutritional value. Foods with a lower glycemic index cause a slower increase in blood glucose levels, making them a healthier choice for people with diabetes or those watching their sugar intake.
In India, the local variety of sorghum is known as jowar, a staple food and fodder crop. This variety has been part of Indian agriculture for centuries and even has a dedicated All-India Coordinated Research Project since 1969.
Adaptability of Sorghum Plants
Sorghum plants are renowned for their resilience. They can withstand harsh environmental conditions such as high temperatures and droughts. This adaptability makes sorghum an ideal crop for semiarid regions where the annual precipitation range is between 350-400 mm.
Sorghum also thrives in areas too hot and dry for maize cultivation. In India, these regions are referred to as the “sorghum belt,” where annual rainfall varies from 400-1000 mm. Moreover, sorghum can grow in a wide variety of soils, with medium to deep black soils being the most conducive to its growth.
Jowar Production in India
Jowar, or Indian sorghum, is a significant crop in several states across the country, being a vital source of both food and fodder. The information about which states produce the most jowar was sourced from the Down To Earth (DTE) organization.