A Brief Review on Challenges and Management Options for Shoot Fly and Stem Borer in Sorghum

Abstract

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is an essential cereal crop in semi-arid regions, yet its yield is severely affected by insect pests, particularly shoot fly (Atherigonasoccata) and stem borer (Chilo partellus). Host plant resistance offers an effective and environmentally sustainable approach for pest management. Resistance in sorghum is governed by a combination of morphological traits such as leaf glossiness, trichome density, seedling vigor, and leaf sheath pigmentation and biochemical components including tannins, phenols, silica etc. Molecular studies have further identified quantitative trait loci (QTLs) linked to these resistance traits, facilitating marker-assisted selection and gene pyramiding for durable pest resistance. Reliable field screening methods, notably the interlard fishmeal technique, enable controlled and uniform pest pressure, ensuring accurate evaluation of genotypes. This review integrates findings from morphological, biochemical, and molecular studies alongside practical screening methods, providing a comprehensive framework for breeding sorghum varieties with enhanced resistance to shoot fly and stem borer. The synthesis highlights the potential of combining classical breeding, molecular tools, and targeted screening to improve sorghum productivity and resilience under pest pressure.