Assessing recombinant inbred sorghum lines for resistance to shoot fly (Atherigona soccata): Focus on glossiness, vigor, and infestation traits

Abstract

The sorghum shoot fly (Atherigona soccata Rondani) is a devastating pest affecting sorghum production worldwide. This study aimed to identify shoot fly-resistant sorghum lines by evaluating 210 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) for seedling vigor, leaf glossiness, egg percent and oviposition rates. While no significant differences were found in seedling vigor or leaf glossiness among the RILs, substantial variation in oviposition rates was observed. Several RILs demonstrated lower egg-laying preference compared to susceptible checks, highlighting their potential as valuable genetic resources for breeding shoot fly-resistant sorghum varieties.