Evaluation of Root Traits for Water Stress Tolerance in Rabi Sorghum Genotypes

Abstract— The experiment was conducted for evaluation of nineteen sorghum genotypes for their varying degree of drought tolerance by studying their root system architecture. The genotypes were grown in ‘Phule Root Box’ structure one of which maintained with drought stress and other received regular irrigation considered as control. Root system architecture changes were recorded at post anthesis stage by studying the root profile. The responses under drought stress found increase in root length, root shoot ratio, decreased in root length density, root volume, root diameter, fresh root weight and root number. The genotypes RSV 2408, RSV 2371 and Phule Anuradha showed better performance in root traits such as increased root length, root shoot ratio, better root length density, fresh root weight and decreased root diameter. Considering the overall performance of root traits, the genotype RSV 2408, RSV2371 and Phule Anuradha could be selected as drought tolerant genotypes for their further utilization in crop improvement program.