Genetic Variability and Trait Association Analysis in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Abstract

This study is important for the scientific and plant breeding community as it provides clear evidence of substantial genetic variability among sesame genotypes under field conditions. The research provides dependable selection criteria for enhancing sesame yield by pinpointing essential traits that contribute to yield and possess high heritability and genetic gain. Variance analysis, PCV, GCV, heritability, genetic gain, and correlation provide insights into the relationships between two variables, enabling breeders to choose superior genotypes for development of varieties. The current study aimed to examine the phenotypic and genotypic variability among various genotypes, as well as to evaluate genetic advancement, correlation coefficients among traits, and sesame yield. The research took place in summer 2024 at RARS, Polasa, Jagtial, to assess genetic variability among fifteen sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) genotypes. Variance analysis showed significant differences across all traits examined among the genotypes. The number of capsules per plant showed the highest genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV). The count of branches per plant and the quantity of capsules per plant showed significant heritability and high genetic advance (GAM), indicating that these characteristics are mainly influenced by additive gene effects. Consequently, phenotypic selection for these characteristics may be beneficial for upcoming breeding programs.