Biodiversity of Pearl Millet [ Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] in Southern Algeria (Hoggar Region)

Abstract

Despite the areas restriction reserved for pearl millet cultivation in Hoggar region, there is an important diversity, which has occupied an essential place in the inhabitants’ diet. For a better knowledge of its biodiversity, seven sites were prospected during the plant maturation period. The morphological and cytological study was undertaken on the basis of the descriptors parameters of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). The most widely varied variables were the Height of the Plant (HP), Stem Diameter (ST), Panicle size; Length (PL), Width (PW) and Color (PC). While very low variation was noted in 3rd leave dimensions; Leaf Length (LL), Leaf Width (LW), Number of Nodes (NN) and Seed Form (SF). Therefore, local millet (MLH.epc, MLH.Z1) and some domesticated (MDH. Saf, MDH.S) appeared as the best groups, based on their panicle characters and seed nutritional quality. Agro-morphological changes detected in this study, show that the majority of millet domesticated (MDH. Saf. P, MDH. Sepl) are generally, classified in second place and used as fodder in the Hoggar region.