Leaf and canopy temperatures of pearl millet genotypes under irrigated and nonirrigated conditions

Ten Pennisetum americanum genotypes differing in plant morphology were grown under both irrigated and nonirrigated treatments in Kansas, USA, and leaf temperature, canopy temperature (Tc), canopy minus air temperature (Tc - Ta), leaf water potential, leaf diffusion resistance, water use and grain yield were evaluated. Significant differences were found between genotypes for grain yield, Tc and Tc - Ta only in the irrigated treatment. From correlation studies it is suggested that average afternoon Tc and Tc - Ta as observed in a nonstressed environment can effectively be used as a technique to screen genotypes for grain yield and grain yield stability (nonirrigated grain yield : irrigated grain yield