Analysis of genetic variability, association and path analysis in the hybrids of sesame (sesamum indicum l)

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted with thirty hybrids produced by line x tester mating design from eleven sesame genotypes involving five branched and six monostem / shy branching types. Observations were recorded on days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, capsule length, capsule breadth, number of seeds per plant, 100 seed weight, seed yield per plant and oil content. The traits, number of branches per plant, number of cap sules per plant and seed yield per plant showed high PCV and GCV estimates. There is scope for selec tion based on these characters, and the diverse genotypes can provide materials for a sound breeding programme. High heritability combined with high genetic advance (as per cent of mean) observed for plant height, number of branches, number of capsules and seed yield per plant showed that these char acters were controlled by additive gene effects and phenotypic selection for these characters would like ly to be effective. Seed yield per plant showed significantly positive correlation with plant height, num ber of branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and 100 seed weight. Capsule breadth showed significantly negative association with seed yield per plant.