Development and evaluation of a cost-effective, mid-density SNP array as a sorghum community genotyping resource

The development of accessible and cost-effective genotyping platforms is essential to accelerate genetic gain in crop improvement. To address the U.S. sorghum community’s need for a standardized, mid-density genotyping resource, we developed and validated a targeted single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array using the PlexSeq™ next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform. The resulting genotyping array includes 2,421 SNPs spanning all ten Sorghum bicolor chromosomes and integrates trait-linked and quality control markers selected by public and private stakeholders. Genotyping 2,726 diverse accessions, including the Sorghum Association Panel (SAP), demonstrated high call rates (>90% for most samples and markers), low missing data, and accurate resolution of population structure consistent with prior whole-genome studies. In comparative genomic prediction analyses, the mid-density array performed equivalently to high-density genotype-by-sequencing (GBS) platforms for key traits such as grain yield and plant height across multi-environment trials. Designed for broad utility in breeding pipelines, the array enables marker-assisted selection, genomic prediction, identity verification, and germplasm quality control. Moreover, its adoption by the USDA National Plant Germplasm System facilitates the curation of genebanks and the management of core collections. This community-driven genotyping platform offers a scalable, reproducible, and customizable tool to support molecular breeding in sorghum and underscores the value of targeted marker systems in resource-optimized crop improvement programs.