Sorghum Diversity 1: Origins and Importance

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is a globally important and versatile crop. It is used in food and beverages, as animal feed, and it’s even used as a building material. Although sorghum originated in semi-arid climates, it is now grown in a wide range of environments. Dr. Geoff Morris and his colleagues are using the broad range of sorghum diversity in the USDA national genebank to develop varieties with pest resistance and other desirable traits. This video was produced by Colorado State University’s Center for Science Communication, in conjunction with Colorado State University’s Department of Soil and Crop Sciences and the United States Department of Agriculture. Funding was provided by USDA-NIFA-Higher Education Challenge Grant (2020-70003-303930), with additional support from USDA-ARS National Laboratory for Genetic Resources Preservation, CSU Agricultural Research, Development and Education Center, and Colorado State University. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, lender.