Combining ability and gene action for grain yield and biofortification traits in pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]: implications for breeding high-yielding biofortified hybrids in arid regions
Hybrid RIB-9184 × RIB-15131 combines high yield (18.84 g plant⁻¹) with iron (46.16 mg kg⁻¹), zinc (38.86 mg kg⁻¹), and protein (11.91%); Fe–Zn correlation (rg = 0.82) permits simultaneous biofortification. Pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br., syn. Cenchrus americanus (L.) Morrone] is a climate-resilient cereal...