Unique Hybrid Pearl Millet Lines

Kansas State University
posted on 03/08/2011

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The KSU pearl millet lines (Pennisetum glaucum) consist of breeding material developed over several years through the KSU Agricultural Research Center. The exact crossing and selection protocols used to develop this material are unique to this location. These lines are a mixture of F2, F5, F6, and F7 generations. The available lines consist of advanced breeding of various backgrounds which are highly focused on drought tolerance. Although there is not much information on the disease resistance of these particular lines, studies found that they are not susceptible to any major disease and may have a strong resistance to Macrophomina due to the stay green trait.

• Pearl Millet is most commonly produced and used in India and Africa to make bread (Roti) and porridge.
• In the United States, Pearl Millet is primarily used for animal feed; several studies have demonstrated its forage potential for various types of animals, including poultry (Broiler market), ducks, cows, pigs, and catfish.
• Pearl Millet has also been used to produce specialty bird seed and dog food.

• Due to its high drought tolerance it can be grown in areas where other cereal crops, such as maize or wheat are unable to survive.
• The seed weighs approximately half of a Sorghum seed, has an earlier maturity and is more drought tolerant. It also tolerates low levels of pH in soil and is much lower in tannins.
• Typically pearl millet hybrids are shorter in stature for easier combining, and higher in seed yield.
  • Protein content of pearl millet is 45% higher than feed corn and is also 40% higher in lysine