Utilization, genetics and breeding of small-seeded millets:: 4.: Fingermillet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.]

Finger millet ranks forth in the economic significance of small-seeded millets. It orginated in East Africa and was first domesticated by selection approximately 5.000 years ago. It is used in the production of porridge, soup, cake, bread and beer. There are numerous landraces and wild Eleusine species that can serve as means to enlarge the genetic variability of the crop. However, progress in cytogenetics, molecular genetics and biotechnology of Eleusine is very scarce. Therefore efforts should be stengthened to improve tolerance to stress factors, yield and seed quality of this neglected crop.