Characterization and agronomic performance of Setaria italica lines as an alternative crop

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the agronomic performance of Setaria italica lines to support the development and future release of productive and well-adapted cultivars. The experiments were conducted in 2023 and 2024 at the Regional University of the Northwest of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Climatic variables were obtained from the NASA POWER system using the EnvRtype package. Agronomic traits related to plant architecture, development, and yield were measured. The results revealed wide genetic variability and good adaptability among the lines. Stem diameter, number of internodes, and panicle length were positively associated with grain yield, indicating their usefulness for indirect selection. Lines L7, L11, and L14 showed superior overall performance, while the control and the original population exhibited greater stability but lower trait expression. These findings confirm the agronomic potential of Setaria italica as an alternative crop, particularly due to its resilience, short growth cycle, and nutritional value.