Adult‐Plant Resistance of Sorghum Genotypes Against Anthracnose ( Colletotrichum sublineolum ) Under Field Conditions in Northwestern Ethiopia

ABSTRACT Anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum sublineolum , is a major constraint to sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) production in Ethiopia, leading to significant yield losses. Host resistance remains the most effective and environmentally sustainable management strategy and provides a critical foundation for breeding programs targeting durable resistance. This study evaluated 18 sorghum genotypes for adult‐plant resistance to anthracnose at Pawe Agricultural Research Center (PARC), Ethiopia, over three consecutive cropping seasons (2022–2024). The experiment was arranged in a randomised complete block design with three replications. Significant variation in disease reaction was observed among genotypes. Only the genotype Malkam exhibited a highly resistant (HR) response, while the majority (83.34%) was moderately susceptible (MS). Two genotypes, Adukara and ETSL102956, were classified as susceptible (S). These results indicate limited resistance among the tested germplasm; however, Malkam represents a valuable source for breeding programs aimed at enhancing anthracnose resistance in sorghum. Future studies should evaluate larger germplasm collections under both greenhouse and field conditions at seedling and adult‐plant stages to strengthen resistance breeding efforts.