Effect of iron deficiency chlorosis on growth and yield component traits of sorghum1

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Abstract
Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is susceptible to iron (Fe) deficiency chlorosis when grown on alkaline calcareous soils. Iron deficiency chlorosis can markedly affect sorghum growth and yield. Observed growth and yield component trait differences between chlorotic and nonchlorotic plants were large. Iron deficiency chlorosis caused a delay in flowering; shorter plants; lower grain yields per ha, plant, and head; and reduced number of seeds per plant and head. Seed weight, grain protein, and tillering remained unchanged as chlorosis became more severe. Yield component traits were affected more than growth traits. All growth and yield component traits were sufficiently heritable for plant breeding purposes. Good progress for improving sorghum for reduced Fe deficiency chlorosis and hence yield should be attainable through recurrent selection. Predicted gains from selection indicated four cycles would be needed to reduce visual chlorosis symptoms in susceptible individuals to levels observed in resistant individuals.