Characterization of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.] genotypes by seedling anthocyanin pigmentation and seed characters

Forty-one genotypes of pearl millet, including twelve hybrids and their parental lines, were grouped into two distinct categories based on anthocyanin pigmentation of seedlings under field and controlled conditions of growth. More genotypes (29) developed pigmentation under controlled conditions than in field (14), possibly due to availability of optimum conditions for pigment synthesis. Seedling anthocyanin pigmentation in combination with seed characters such as shape, colour and response to phenol colour reaction could identify 9 genotypes individually and group the rest into 9 categories, each with 2-7 genotypes. Based on the recommendations of this study, seedling anthocyanin pigmentation pattern under controlled conditions of growth has been incorporated in the table of characteristics in the draft of the Indian National Guidelines for Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability testing of pearl millet genotypes.