Climate adaptation of millet and sorghum varieties in North-Eastern Senegal: cross-referencing rainfall, thermal and phenological parameters

Abstract

Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) and sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) are the main rainfed cereals grown in North-Eastern Senegal. However, faced with constraints such as falling rainfall, rising temperatures and frequent dry spells, their production is tending to decline. This article examines the climatic constraints and other shocks suffered by rainfed millet varieties Souna__3, ICTP 8203, GB 8735, Gawane and Chakti, as well as those as sorghum CE__180-33, Payenne and Golob{é}, which are the main varieties released and currently grown in north-eastern Senegal. Based on data collected in Podor, Matam and Lingu{è}re, the article analyses the adaptation of different millet and sorghum varieties to climatic condition and their evolution over time The results show a rainfall deficit since the early 1970s, combined by greater thermal constraints. Analysis of the differences between cumulative rainfall and maximum evapotranspiration for varieties at different growth stages reveals constant water deficits for Souna__3 millet and CE 180-33 sorghum. In contrast, Chakti millet shows positive water balances in over 80% of years in the east and west of the study area, and in 47% of cases in the north. Only Chakti and ICTP 8203 are adapted to the climatic conditions of the eastern and western zones, with a probability of suitability of over 80% for the periods 1931-1969 and 1999-2020. However, none of the varieties is adapted to the climatic conditions in the north. In addition to these climatic constraints, the interviewed farmers attribute the decline in agricultural production to livestock straying, attacks by bird pests and parasitic infestations. exacerbate agricultural losses. It is therefore essential to develop complementary strategies including wider dissemination of varieties better adapted to current climatic conditions, such as Chakti and ICTP 8203, and the strengthening of crop protection systems, notably through biological control and integrated pest management.