The Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Genomics-Assisted Sorghum Breeding - Final Report
- Genomics-assisted breeding can be effectively implemented in developing countries with limited resources.
- Genomic selection can accelerate genetic gain in sorghum breeding programs.
- Sugarcane aphid resistance and drought tolerance can be improved through genomic approaches.
- A collaborative network between US universities and Haitian institutions is effective for sorghum breeding.
- Stay Green trait is a major component of both stem sugar yield and grain yield under water stress.
The Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Genomics-Assisted Sorghum Breeding aimed to determine if small countries with limited plant genomics experience could use advanced breeding approaches to accelerate new variety generation. This model was tested in Haiti, focusing on improving dual-purpose sorghums for smallholders. The project established a network of scientists in Haiti, Cornell University, and Kansas State University, with each member specializing in phenotyping, genomic selection tool development, and bioinformatics, respectively. The project successfully identified genomic regions conferring resistance to sugarcane aphid and improved drought tolerance. Activities are being continued under the Sorghum and Millet Innovation Lab with a focus on durable adaptation to aphid and drought for smallholder sorghum in the Americas.
How to cite
United States Agency for International Development (USAID), 2021, The Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Genomics-Assisted Sorghum Breeding - Final Report, accessed via HaitiDocs, https://www.haitidocs.org/doc/usaid-2021-feed-future-innovation-lab