Field Insights into the Genetic Symphony: Decoding Gene Dynamics for Enhanced Sorghum Yield (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench)

In this investigation using line × tester analysis, fifteen parents (3 Cytoplasmic Male Sterility females and 12 males) and 36 hybrids, including the standard check CSH-25, underwent evaluation in a randomized block design with three replications. Notably, significant general combining ability variances for 1000-seed weight and highly significant specific combining ability variances for all traits were observed. The research highlights the prevalence of additive genetic variance in 1000-seed weight and the combined influence of additive and nonadditive gene effects in panicle length ratio. Recognized good general combiners, such as SR 2991 , SR 2950 , SR 2872, SR 2984 and 691A, provide valuable insights for breeding strategies. Subsequent evaluations of promising hybrids, particularly 691 A × SR 2991, 691 A × SR 2872 and 691 A × SR 2950 hold potential for optimizing grain yield, panicle length, and dwarfness. These findings provide nuanced insights for future Sorghum breeding programs, enhancing understanding of gene dynamics for improved productivity and emphasizing the pivotal role of hybrid sorghum in contemporary agricultural contexts.