Evaluating Genetic Variability in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Genotypes for Yield and Oil Content

Exploiting the variation among crops and their genotypes is very essential for low-input sustainable agriculture. This study was conducted to evaluate the variability among sesame genotypes for yield and oil-related traits. The research was carried out at the Experimental Fields of Oilseeds Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Tandojam, Sindh, during the Kharif-2023. The experiment was laid-out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Seven different sesame genotypes, viz. ARS-I (white), Tandojam-1, K-3, Irani, S-04, TS-5, and S-17 (Check variety) were involved for screening in relation to eleven selected parameters. The mean squares from analysis of variances were significant for all the parameters. The genotypes ARS-1 (white) displayed maximum germination (%) after seven days, plant population per plot, plant height (cm), number of branches per plant and 1000-seed weight. The genotype Tandojam-1 showed minimum days to first flowering, days to 90% maturity and maximum number of branches per plant, 1000-seed weight, seed yield (g per plot and kg ha-1) and oil content (%). The genotype S-4 displayed maximum plant population (per ha), plant height (cm), number of capsules per plant, seed yield (g per plot and kg ha-1). The correlation coefficient revealed that seed yield was positive related to its contributing traits. Heritability in broad sense estimated high heritability, less influenced by environment was observed for all the studied material which exhibited that characters should be improved through selection program. We conclude that ARS-1 (white) and Tandojam-1 proved to be the better candidates for further breeding, hybridization and selection programs to develop new varieties.